1956 BMW 501 vs. 2007 Opel Astra
To start off, 2007 Opel Astra is newer by 51 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, 2007 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2007 Opel Astra.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 2007 Opel Astra | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 501 | Astra |
Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 262 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1385 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |