1952 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 5,461 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501.
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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | R |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5461 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3220 mm |
