1988 BMW 535 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 1988 BMW 535 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (211 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1956 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, 1988 BMW 535 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1988 BMW 535 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 535 | 501 |
Year Released | 1988 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3430 cc | 3166 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 211 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |