1952 BMW 501 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 55 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 5,512 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 438 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 895 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. 2007 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5512 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3170 mm |
