1957 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Citroen C5

To start off, 2012 Citroen C5 is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C5 weights approximately 197 kg more than 1957 BMW 501.

Because 1957 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 1957 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C5, 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, 1957 BMW 501 (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Citroen C5. (200 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1957 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Citroen C5.

Compare all specifications:

1957 BMW 501 2012 Citroen C5
Make BMW Citroen
Model 501 C5
Year Released 1957 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3168 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 4800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 223 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75 mm 88 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1405 kg 1602 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4790 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1860 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2820 mm