1956 BMW 501 vs. 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan is newer by 39 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, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan (142 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 173 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, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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, 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan (235 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1995 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 501 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1578 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3040 mm |
