VIN Decoder / makes / BMW / 501/502
BMW logo

BMW 501/502 Specs & Chassis Numbers

Compare the listed BMW 501/502 specifications and understand how to check an older chassis number. The listed variants predate the modern 17-character VIN format supported by our decoder. 6 listed variants. Free, no registration.

1952–1964 6 variants Petrol
Model-family illustration
Model-family illustration. Body style and generation may differ. Photo: Wikimedia Commons, via Wikimedia Commons

Identifying this older vehicle

Original chassis numbers from before the modern VIN standard can be shorter and use manufacturer-specific formats. Do not add characters to make one fit a 17-character form. Compare the original markings with the registration papers and the correct period manual; a later registration or replacement identity plate needs its own supporting documents.

The NHTSA vPIC decoder is intended for model years 1981 onward. The specification rows below are a reference for comparison, not authentication of an individual car.

BMW 501/502 specs by variant

All 6 listed variants, grouped by fuel and gearbox. Open a group and compare the listed years, engine, power and emissions. On a small screen, scroll the table sideways.

Petrol · MANUAL 6 variants
VariantListed yearsFuelEnginePowerGearboxDriveCO₂
3.2L V8 S 4MT RWD (160 HP) 1952–1964 Petrol 3.2 L 158 bhp MANUAL 4sp RWD —
3.2L V8 Super 4MT RWD (140 HP) 1952–1964 Petrol 3.2 L 138 bhp MANUAL 4sp RWD —
3.2L V8 5MT RWD (120 HP) 1952–1964 Petrol 3.2 L 118 bhp MANUAL 4sp RWD —
2.6L V8 4MT RWD (105 HP) 1952–1964 Petrol 2.6 L 99 bhp MANUAL 4sp RWD —
2.0L 4MT RWD (72 HP) 1952–1964 Petrol 2.0 L 71 bhp MANUAL 4sp RWD —
2.0L 4MT RWD (65 HP) 1952–1964 Petrol 2.0 L 64 bhp MANUAL 4sp RWD —

Specification reference from cardata.wiki. A question mark means a year boundary is missing from the source, not that production continues. An empty field means the source did not provide that value. Confirm the fitted engine, transmission and equipment against the car’s documents. How specification matching works.

Using the BMW 501/502 specifications

Start with the car’s year, body and engine, then compare the matching row. Several variants may share a model name while differing in power, transmission or drive layout. If the advert conflicts with the registration or manufacturer documents, resolve the mismatch before relying on the specifications. The catalog does not authenticate an older vehicle’s chassis or restoration.

Other BMW models

Compare another model, or see all BMW models.

1 Series1 Series (F20)1 Series 3 doors (E81)1 Series 3 doors (F21) LCI1 Series 3-door (F21)1 Series 5 doors (E87)1 Series 5 doors (F20) LCI1 Series 5-door (E87) LCI1 Series 5-door (F20) LCI1 Series Convertible (E88)1 Series Coupe (E82)1 Series Coupe (E82) LCI1 Series M Coupe (E82)1 Series Sedan (F52)150016002 Series2 Series Active Tourer2 Series Active Tourer (F45)2 Series Convertible2 Series Convertible (F23) LCI2 Series Coupe (G42)2 Series Gran Tourer (F45)2 Series Gran Tourer (F46)

BMW 501/502 identification FAQ

Can this tool decode an original BMW 501/502 chassis number?+
The variants listed here predate the modern 17-character VIN format. The decoder does not support their original short chassis numbers. Use the vehicle’s documents, original identification markings and a manufacturer archive or model specialist to investigate its identity.
Where should I check the BMW 501/502 identification number?+
Start with the registration documents and the original chassis or identification plate. Location and format depend on the vehicle’s era and body. Consult the correct period manual rather than assuming modern windscreen or door-label locations.
What do the BMW 501/502 dates in this catalog mean?+
The source lists years 1952–1964 across 6 variants. A question mark means a year boundary was not supplied. These are catalog dates, not a verified production history or an individual vehicle’s build date.
Is the BMW 501/502 specification reference free?+
Yes. You can read the listed specifications without an account. They are reference data and should be checked against period manufacturer documents when identifying or restoring a vehicle.

Explore the BMW catalog

Compare other models and generations with source specifications.

Browse BMW models