Zündapp K 500 vs Ariel Model E 500 (1940)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Zündapp K 500stacks up against the Ariel Model E 500. Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecZündapp K 500Ariel Model E 500
Model year19401928
Price
Engine498 cc498 cc
Horsepower16 hp
Weight180 kg
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Front brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Rear brakesExpanding brake (drum brake)Expanding brake (drum brake)
Tires3.50-19 / 3.50-19

Zündapp K 500 vs Ariel Model E 500 — which should you buy?

Picking between the Zündapp K 500 and the Ariel Model E 500 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 E 500 counters with its own power figure.

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: