1955 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 53 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E.
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. 2008 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | E |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1145 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 |
