1955 BMW 501 vs. 2000 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2000 Ford Taurus is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Taurus (201 HP) has 91 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Taurus weights approximately 161 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Ford Taurus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 2000 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2000 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Taurus |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2961 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
