1952 BMW 501 vs. 1954 Buick 70
To start off, 1954 Buick 70 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 501 would be higher. At 5,274 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Buick 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Buick 70 (200 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Buick 70 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Buick 70 weights approximately 698 kg more than 1952 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. 1954 Buick 70 has automatic transmission and 1952 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1952 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1954 Buick 70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1954 Buick 70 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | 70 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5274 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1983 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3230 mm |
