1955 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 494 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 605 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | SL |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| 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 Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
