BMW R51 3 vs NSU 501 TS (1954)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the BMW R51 3stacks up against the NSU 501 TS. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecBMW R51 3NSU 501 TS
Model year19541936
Price
Engine494 cc494 cc
Horsepower24 hp14 hp
Weight185 kg
Fuel capacity4.5 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission4-speed
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.50-19.00 / 3.50-19.00 3.50-26 / 4-27

BMW R51 3 vs NSU 501 TS — which should you buy?

Picking between the BMW R51 3 and the NSU 501 TS usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the BMW R51 3 brings 24 hp, while the NSU 501 TS counters with 14 hp at 185 kg.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: