1956 BMW 501 vs. 1985 TVR 390
To start off, 1985 TVR 390 is newer by 29 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 3,905 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR 390 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 TVR 390 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR 390 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 298 kg more than 1985 TVR 390.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1985 TVR 390 (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 TVR 390 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 1985 TVR 390 | |
Make | BMW | TVR |
Model | 501 | 390 |
Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3905 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 367 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 89.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 77.1 mm |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1107 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4020 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2390 mm |