1952 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2002 Cadillac XLR is newer by 50 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 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 369 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. 2002 Cadillac XLR 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. 2002 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2002 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 501 | XLR |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4570 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2690 mm |
