1952 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 438 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL.
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 SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1952 BMW 501 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 501 | SL |
Year Released | 1952 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 5513 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 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |