1955 BMW 501 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 51 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501.
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 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
