1952 BMW 501 vs. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE
To start off, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE is newer by 10 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 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE (118 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE 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:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 1962 Mercedes-Benz SE | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | SE |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
