2009 BMW 135 vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 2009 BMW 135 is newer by 54 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 135 (302 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 135 weights approximately 70 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. 2009 BMW 135 has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 135 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 135 | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 135 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
