1955 BMW 501 vs. 2001 BMW 320
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 46 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 311 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2001 BMW 320 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. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2001 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3000 mm |
