1956 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 56 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), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 708 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Traverse | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 501 | Traverse |
Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
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 | 281 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6300 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2113 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5207 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1991 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1849 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3020 mm |