1956 BMW 501 vs. 1999 Lexus GS
To start off, 1999 Lexus GS is newer by 43 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Lexus GS weights approximately 315 kg more than 1956 BMW 501.
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, 1999 Lexus GS (298 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm). This means 1999 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1999 Lexus GS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 501 | GS |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
