1952 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Citroen C3
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 57 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 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C3 (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 159 kg more than 2009 Citroen C3.
Because 1952 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1952 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2009 Citroen C3 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. 2009 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2009 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 501 | C3 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2470 mm |
