1952 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Porsche 911
To start off, 2011 Porsche 911 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 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Porsche 911 (500 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 428 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Porsche 911 weights approximately 360 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.
Because 2011 Porsche 911 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1952 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2350 mm |
