2001 BMW Compact vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 2001 BMW Compact is newer by 46 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, 2001 BMW Compact (193 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Compact should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Compact weights approximately 235 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:
| 2001 BMW Compact | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Compact | 501 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2501 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
