1952 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 799 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, 2012 Volkswagen Routan, 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. 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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. 2012 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3078 mm |
