1956 BMW 501 vs. 1965 NSU Autonova
To start off, 1965 NSU Autonova is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 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 85 more horse power than 1965 NSU Autonova. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU Autonova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1965 NSU Autonova. 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:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1965 NSU Autonova | |
| Make | BMW | NSU |
| Model | 501 | Autonova |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1085 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |
