1952 BMW 501 vs. 1957 Buick 40
To start off, 1957 Buick 40 is newer by 5 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 5,967 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Buick 40 (248 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 176 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Buick 40 weights approximately 510 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1957 Buick 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | 40 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 248 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3110 mm |
