1956 BMW 501 vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 31 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 15 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 35 kg more than 1956 BMW 501.
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, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
Model | 501 | Cutlass |
Year Released | 1956 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2834 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1440 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |