1955 BMW 501 vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1972 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1972 Mercedes-Benz E. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 1972 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | E |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
