1956 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2001 Nissan Maxima is newer by 45 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, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 10 kg more than 1956 BMW 501.
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, 2001 Nissan Maxima, 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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Nissan Maxima.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2001 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 501 | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
