1952 BMW 501 vs. 1975 Ford Fairlane
To start off, 1975 Ford Fairlane is newer by 23 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 4,096 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Ford Fairlane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Ford Fairlane (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Ford Fairlane should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Ford Fairlane weights approximately 165 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 | 1975 Ford Fairlane | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Fairlane |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4096 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
