1999 BMW 320 vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 1999 BMW 320 is newer by 44 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 320 (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 320 weights approximately 25 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:
| 1999 BMW 320 | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
