1955 BMW 501 vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 52 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 494 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | CL |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5980 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 | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
