1952 BMW 501 vs. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 33 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 2,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1985 Pontiac Grand Am.
Because 1952 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1952 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac Grand Am, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am 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. 1985 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1985 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 501 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
