2004 BMW 316 vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 52 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 90 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:
| 2004 BMW 316 | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 316 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
