1995 BMW 840 vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 1995 BMW 840 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1995 BMW 840 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 840 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 840 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 840 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1955 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:
| 1995 BMW 840 | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 840 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2840 mm |
