1952 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Toyota Prius is newer by 56 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Prius (76 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Prius weights approximately 45 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, 2008 Toyota Prius, 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. 2008 Toyota Prius 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. 2008 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2008 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | BMW | Toyota |
| Model | 501 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 13.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
