1957 BMW 501 vs. 1955 Chrysler Imperial
To start off, 1957 BMW 501 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chrysler Imperial. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chrysler Imperial would be higher. At 5,423 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chrysler Imperial is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chrysler Imperial (247 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chrysler Imperial should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chrysler Imperial weights approximately 995 kg more than 1957 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1955 Chrysler Imperial (470 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 247 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1955 Chrysler Imperial will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1955 Chrysler Imperial | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 501 | Imperial |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5423 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 6170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3800 mm |
