1956 BMW 501 vs. 1994 Opel Astra
To start off, 1994 Opel Astra is newer by 38 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 1994 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1994 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 292 kg more than 1994 Opel Astra. 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, 1994 Opel Astra, 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 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Opel Astra. (168 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 1994 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 501 | Astra |
Year Released | 1956 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 168 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1113 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |