1952 BMW 501 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 61 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), 2013 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Passat (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 204 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 278 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, 2013 Volkswagen Passat, 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. 2013 Volkswagen Passat 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. 2013 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2013 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2013 |
| 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 | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 11.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4868 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1835 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1487 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2803 mm |
