1952 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 60 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette (430 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 358 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 207 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 | 2012 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 430 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1492 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1928 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1237 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2685 mm |
