1952 BMW 501 vs. 2007 Volvo S40
To start off, 2007 Volvo S40 is newer by 55 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 2,435 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volvo S40 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo S40 weights approximately 54 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, 2007 Volvo S40, 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. 2007 Volvo S40 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. 2007 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2007 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
| 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 | 1339 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
