1952 BMW 501 vs. 2011 BMW Z4
To start off, 2011 BMW Z4 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW Z4 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW Z4 weights approximately 195 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2011 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2497 mm |
