1955 BMW 501 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 51 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 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 494 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 775 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3090 mm |
