1956 BMW 501 vs. 1943 Citroen 15
To start off, 1956 BMW 501 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1943 Citroen 15. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1943 Citroen 15 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1943 Citroen 15. (76 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1943 Citroen 15. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1943 Citroen 15. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1943 Citroen 15, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1943 Citroen 15. (187 Nm). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1943 Citroen 15.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1943 Citroen 15 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 501 | 15 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1943 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2866 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3100 mm |
