1955 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
