1955 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 54 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano (201 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501.
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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | Viano |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3210 mm |
