1952 BMW 501 vs. 1969 Porsche 906
To start off, 1969 Porsche 906 is newer by 17 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1969 Porsche 906 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Porsche 906 (217 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Porsche 906 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 668 kg more than 1969 Porsche 906.
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 | 1969 Porsche 906 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 906 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 8000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 617 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2310 mm |
