1952 BMW 501 vs. 1987 Buick Electra
To start off, 1987 Buick Electra is newer by 35 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Electra (139 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Electra weights approximately 195 kg more than 1952 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1987 Buick Electra, 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. 1987 Buick Electra 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. 1987 Buick Electra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1952 BMW 501 | 1987 Buick Electra | |
Make | BMW | Buick |
Model | 501 | Electra |
Year Released | 1952 | 1987 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3791 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |