1952 BMW 501 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 45 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (280 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 85 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 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | 501 | NSX |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| 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 | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2540 mm |
