1956 BMW 501 vs. 1977 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1977 Mini MK IV is newer by 21 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 94 more horse power than 1977 Mini MK IV. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1977 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 760 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV. 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, 1977 Mini MK IV, 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (76 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 1977 Mini MK IV | |
Make | BMW | Mini |
Model | 501 | MK IV |
Year Released | 1956 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1098 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 44 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 76 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 645 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2040 mm |