1956 BMW 501 vs. 2004 Proton Saloon
To start off, 2004 Proton Saloon is newer by 48 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 56 more horse power than 2004 Proton Saloon. (82 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2004 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2004 Proton Saloon. 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, 2004 Proton Saloon, 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 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Proton Saloon. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2004 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | BMW | Proton |
| Model | 501 | Saloon |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 109 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 | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2390 mm |
