1952 BMW 501 vs. 1979 Triumph Spitfire
To start off, 1979 Triumph Spitfire is newer by 27 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 1 more horse power than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 470 kg more than 1979 Triumph Spitfire. 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 | 1979 Triumph Spitfire | |
Make | BMW | Triumph |
Model | 501 | Spitfire |
Year Released | 1952 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 73.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
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 | 815 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1210 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2110 mm |