1952 BMW 501 vs. 2003 BMW 645
To start off, 2003 BMW 645 is newer by 51 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 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 645 (325 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 645 weights approximately 405 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 | 2003 BMW 645 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 645 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 325 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
