1952 BMW 501 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190 is newer by 40 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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190 (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190 should accelerate faster 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 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | 190 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 72.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
