1975 BMW 520 vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 1975 BMW 520 is newer by 23 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 BMW 520 (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 BMW 520 weights approximately 10 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:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 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 | 1295 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2840 mm |
