1955 BMW 501 vs. 2007 BMW Z4
To start off, 2007 BMW Z4 is newer by 52 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW Z4 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 228 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW Z4 weights approximately 140 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 | 2007 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 338 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
