1952 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Cadillac STS
To start off, 2005 Cadillac STS is newer by 53 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 3,556 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac STS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac STS (255 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac STS should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac STS weights approximately 511 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. 2005 Cadillac STS 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. 2005 Cadillac STS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2005 Cadillac STS | |
| Make | BMW | Cadillac |
| Model | 501 | STS |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3556 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1796 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
