1997 Acura NSX vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 1997 Acura NSX is newer by 41 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 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura NSX (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Acura NSX.
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, 1997 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | NSX | 501 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2840 mm |
