1955 BMW 501 vs. 2004 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2004 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 49 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, 2004 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 720 kg more than 2004 Donkervoort D8.
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 | 2004 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | BMW | Donkervoort |
| Model | 501 | D8 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2310 mm |
