1952 BMW 501 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1968 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 16 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 BMW 501 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. (53 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 145 kg more than 1952 BMW 501.
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 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | E |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
