1956 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Citroen C5
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 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 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 395 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 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, 2009 Citroen C5, 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, 2009 Citroen C5 (290 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2009 Citroen C5 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 501 | C5 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 219 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |
