1958 BMW 501 vs. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
To start off, 1958 BMW 501 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air would be higher. At 4,343 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air weights approximately 145 kg more than 1958 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1958 BMW 501 | 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Bel Air |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4343 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2930 mm |
