1952 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 53 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (302 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 375 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
