1977 AMC Matador vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 1977 AMC Matador is newer by 25 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 4,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 AMC Matador (120 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 AMC Matador weights approximately 576 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. 1977 AMC Matador 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. 1977 AMC Matador will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 AMC Matador | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Matador | 501 |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4982 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.3 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1861 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5330 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2840 mm |
