1952 BMW 501 vs. 1989 Renault 21
To start off, 1989 Renault 21 is newer by 37 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 2,067 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Renault 21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Renault 21 (106 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Renault 21 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1989 Renault 21.
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, 1989 Renault 21, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1989 Renault 21 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 501 | 21 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2067 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
