1952 BMW 501 vs. 1958 Maserati 350S
To start off, 1958 Maserati 350S is newer by 6 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 3,485 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Maserati 350S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Maserati 350S (321 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Maserati 350S should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1958 Maserati 350S.
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 | 1958 Maserati 350S | |
| Make | BMW | Maserati |
| Model | 501 | 350S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 321 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 770 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 990 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2330 mm |
