1952 BMW 501 vs. 1990 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 1990 Pontiac Trans Am 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Trans Am (235 HP) has 163 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Pontiac Trans Am weights approximately 396 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. 1990 Pontiac Trans 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. 1990 Pontiac Trans Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1990 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 501 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1990 |
| 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 | 235 HP |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
