1952 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Volvo V70
To start off, 2001 Volvo V70 is newer by 49 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2001 Volvo V70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volvo V70 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volvo V70 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volvo V70 weights approximately 299 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.
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, 2001 Volvo V70, 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 | 2001 Volvo V70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | V70 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| 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 | 1584 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
