1952 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Porsche 911
To start off, 2005 Porsche 911 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 911 (316 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 911 weights approximately 230 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 | 2005 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 316 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 82.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2360 mm |
