1956 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic 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 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (110 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2012 Honda Civic. 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 Honda Civic, 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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (172 Nm @ 1000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic.

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