1952 BMW 501 vs. 1982 Ferrari 208
To start off, 1982 Ferrari 208 is newer by 30 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 1,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Ferrari 208 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Ferrari 208 (217 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Ferrari 208 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501.
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 | 1982 Ferrari 208 | |
| Make | BMW | Ferrari |
| Model | 501 | 208 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 71 mm |
| 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 | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2350 mm |
