1955 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Citroen C5
To start off, 2001 Citroen C5 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Citroen C5 (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Citroen C5 weights approximately 105 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, 2001 Citroen C5, 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. 2001 Citroen C5 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 Citroen C5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2001 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 501 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
