1956 BMW 501 vs. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus
To start off, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is newer by 40 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 29 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus, 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 501 | Cirrus |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 76 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
