1952 BMW 501 vs. 1956 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 4 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 4,638 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette (245 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 58 kg more than 1956 Chevrolet Corvette.
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 | 1956 Chevrolet Corvette | |
Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
Model | 501 | Corvette |
Year Released | 1952 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4638 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 245 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 98.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 76.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1227 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2600 mm |