Zündapp K 500 vs Ariel Model C (1940)
Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Zündapp K 500stacks up against the Ariel Model C. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.
Spec comparison
| Spec | Zündapp K 500 | Ariel Model C |
|---|---|---|
| Model year | 1940 | 1928 |
| Price | — | — |
| Engine | 498 cc | 498 cc |
| Horsepower | 16 hp | 5 hp |
| Weight | 180 kg | — |
| Fuel type | petrol | petrol |
| Transmission | — | 3-speed |
| Front brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Rear brakes | Expanding brake (drum brake) | Expanding brake (drum brake) |
| Tires | 3.50-19 / 3.50-19 | — |
Zündapp K 500 vs Ariel Model C — which should you buy?
Picking between the Zündapp K 500 and the Ariel Model C usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Zündapp K 500 brings 16 hp in a 180 kg package, while the Ariel Model C counters with 5 hp.
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: