1955 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2012 Porsche Cayman is newer by 57 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche Cayman (320 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 5 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 | 2012 Porsche Cayman | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | 501 | Cayman |
Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 320 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1350 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4376 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1801 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1306 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2416 mm |