1952 BMW 501 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 26 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 190 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 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 501 | 280 |
Year Released | 1952 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2746 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 78.8 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1475 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |