2009 BMW 550 vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 57 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 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (362 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 290 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 550 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1971 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 362 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
