1955 BMW 501 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 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 5,956 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (375 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 265 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 705 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 BMW 501 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 501 | SL |
Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5956 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 110 HP | 375 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 100 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2050 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |