1956 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Opel Astra
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 49 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 15 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. 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, 2005 Opel Astra, 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2005 Opel Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 501 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
