1955 BMW 501 vs. 2003 BMW M3
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 48 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 97 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2003 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
