1956 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Mini Cooper
To start off, 2002 Mini Cooper is newer by 46 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 64 more horse power than 2002 Mini Cooper. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mini Cooper.
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, 2002 Mini Cooper, 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) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mini Cooper. (149 Nm). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2002 Mini Cooper | |
| Make | BMW | Mini |
| Model | 501 | Cooper |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
