1956 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Porsche 911
To start off, 2011 Porsche 911 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Porsche 911 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 362 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Porsche 911 weights approximately 240 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 2011 Porsche 911 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Porsche 911 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, 2011 Porsche 911 (650 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 2011 Porsche 911 | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | 501 | 911 |
Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 500 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 650 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1950 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1645 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4478 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2350 mm |