1959 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2005 Smart ForTwo is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 501 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2005 Smart ForTwo.
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:
| 1959 BMW 501 | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 501 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 40 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 1820 mm |
