1952 BMW 501 vs. 1963 Honda S500
To start off, 1963 Honda S500 is newer by 11 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 29 more horse power than 1963 Honda S500. (43 HP @ 8000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1963 Honda S500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 559 kg more than 1963 Honda S500. 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 | 1963 Honda S500 | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 501 | S500 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 531 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 726 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2010 mm |
