1954 BMW 502 vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1954 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 20 kg more than 1954 BMW 502. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 BMW 502 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 1954 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am (278 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 BMW 502. (221 Nm). This means 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 BMW 502. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1954 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1954 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 BMW 502 | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 502 | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2578 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
