1956 BMW 501 vs. 1989 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1989 Buick LeSabre is newer by 33 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick LeSabre (149 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 95 kg more than 1956 BMW 501. 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, 1989 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1989 Buick LeSabre (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Buick LeSabre will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1989 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
