1952 BMW 501 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S (165 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 235 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 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 80.3 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
