1968 BMW 1600 vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 1968 BMW 1600 is newer by 16 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 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 BMW 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 BMW 1600 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 BMW 1600 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1968 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 BMW 1600 | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 1600 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
