1952 BMW 501 vs. 2011 BMW 530
To start off, 2011 BMW 530 is newer by 59 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 530 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 530 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. 2011 BMW 530 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. 2011 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2011 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2968 mm |
