1952 BMW 501 vs. 1987 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1987 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 153 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.
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 | 1987 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1438 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
