1952 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Pontiac Bonneville
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Pontiac Bonneville is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville (200 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Bonneville weights approximately 345 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, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville, 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. 2003 Pontiac Bonneville 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. 2003 Pontiac Bonneville will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2003 Pontiac Bonneville | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 501 | Bonneville |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |
