1956 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Volt
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Volt is newer by 55 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, 2011 Chevrolet Volt (149 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Volt should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Volt weights approximately 310 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, 2011 Chevrolet Volt, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Volt (370 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm). This means 2011 Chevrolet Volt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2011 Chevrolet Volt | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Volt |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 149 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4498 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1438 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2685 mm |
