The BMW 501 - Germany Getting Back on Track
At the time it was launched, the BMW 501 was a sensation. BMW had gotten back on its feet rapidly after the war but everyone was amazed to see it come back with a massive six-cylinder sedan stuffed with luxury goodies. The 501 was produced from 1952 through 1958 and was first introduced to the public at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Looking much like a Bentley (oops, did we say that?), the 501's rather grand styling inspired its 'Baroque Angel' nickname given by the German public.
BMW 501 on the Left
The 501 came with a new perimeter frame chassis with torsion bar suspension all around, four-speed column-change gearbox, prewar 326 engine, bored out to 2.1 liters from 1955. Out of all editions of this classic BMW, the desirable two-door coupe and cabriolet were glorious white elephants in austere postwar Germany.
If you can still find one, a 501 can demand prices all over the map. Overall, this classic car earns three out of five starts for reliability and maintenance costs. It earns a paltry one out of five for parts/support and market appeal - but every vintage car has its niche of followers. You probably won't find too many 501s hanging around your local cruise-in so if contrarian is your thing, this may be a car for you! We'll try and find you one for sale later this week, stay tuned.
(Description courtesy of Sports Car Market magazine)
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