1956 BMW 501 vs. 1988 Ford Meteor
To start off, 1988 Ford Meteor is newer by 32 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 67 more horse power than 1988 Ford Meteor. (71 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Meteor.
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, 1988 Ford Meteor, 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Meteor. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Meteor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1988 Ford Meteor | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Meteor |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
