1956 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2002 Subaru Outback 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (154 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Subaru Outback weights approximately 85 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 2002 Subaru Outback is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Subaru Outback will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Subaru Outback (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2002 Subaru Outback | |
| Make | BMW | Subaru |
| Model | 501 | Outback |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 99.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
