1952 BMW 501 vs. 1982 Lada Niva
To start off, 1982 Lada Niva 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Lada Niva (76 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1982 Lada Niva.
Because 1982 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1952 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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 Lada Niva | |
| Make | BMW | Lada |
| Model | 501 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1451 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2210 mm |
