1957 BMW 501 vs. 1948 Jensen Straight 8
To start off, 1957 BMW 501 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jensen Straight 8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jensen Straight 8 would be higher. At 3,860 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Jensen Straight 8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. (130 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1948 Jensen Straight 8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jensen Straight 8 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1957 BMW 501.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1948 Jensen Straight 8 | |
| Make | BMW | Jensen |
| Model | 501 | Straight 8 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1948 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3860 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3210 mm |
