1952 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 60 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 2,143 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (168 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | C |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 2143 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 16.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1459 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
