1961 BMW 501 vs. 1955 Chrysler 300
To start off, 1961 BMW 501 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 5,425 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chrysler 300 (296 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1961 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. Let's talk about torque, 1955 Chrysler 300 (477 Nm) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1955 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1955 Chrysler 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 501 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5425 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 296 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 477 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3210 mm |
