1971 BMW 3 vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 19 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 95 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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
