1955 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Fiat 500
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 53 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, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 480 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. 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, 2008 Fiat 500, 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. 2008 Fiat 500 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. 2008 Fiat 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2008 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 501 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 70.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2310 mm |
