1952 BMW 501 vs. 1980 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1980 Nissan Laurel is newer by 28 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, 1980 Nissan Laurel (97 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1980 Nissan Laurel.
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. 1980 Nissan Laurel has automatic transmission and 1952 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1952 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Nissan Laurel will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1980 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 501 | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
