1952 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 50 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 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 640 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1952 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1952 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3221 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2970 mm |
