1952 BMW 501 vs. 1972 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1972 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 20 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 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Pontiac Firebird (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 185 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 | 1972 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 501 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
