1952 BMW 501 vs. 1990 Rover 400
To start off, 1990 Rover 400 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Rover 400 (115 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1990 Rover 400.
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 Rover 400, 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 | 1990 Rover 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 501 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
