2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is newer by 53 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 4,280 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage (380 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage weights approximately 365 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:
| 2008 Aston Martin V8 Vantage | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Aston Martin | BMW |
| Model | V8 Vantage | 501 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4280 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 380 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
