1955 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Volvo C70
To start off, 2001 Volvo C70 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 Volvo C70 (161 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo C70 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo C70 weights approximately 55 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 Volvo C70, 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 Volvo C70 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 Volvo C70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2001 Volvo C70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | C70 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
