1952 BMW 501 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 3 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 BMW 501 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2430 mm |
