1956 BMW 501 vs. 1990 BMW 316

To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 34 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 38 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.

Compare all specifications:

1956 BMW 501 1990 BMW 316
Make BMW BMW
Model 501 316
Year Released 1956 1990
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3166 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 222 Nm 141 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4250 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1405 kg 1080 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2580 mm


 

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