1955 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 50 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 470 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | CLS |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2780 mm |
