1960 BMW 501 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1960 BMW 501 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1960 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 BMW 501 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
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:
| 1960 BMW 501 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 38 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
