1955 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 48 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E (220 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 440 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | E |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
