1952 BMW 501 vs. 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 38 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass (163 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
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, 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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. 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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. 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1990 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | BMW | Oldsmobile |
| Model | 501 | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
