1956 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 53 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 144 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Traverse.
Because 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 288 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1261 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3030 mm |
