1955 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 47 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 383 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 790 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 87 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
