1956 BMW 501 vs. 1949 Mercury Roadster
To start off, 1956 BMW 501 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1949 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1949 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 145 kg more than 1956 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.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 1949 Mercury Roadster | |
Make | BMW | Mercury |
Model | 501 | Roadster |
Year Released | 1956 | 1949 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2960 mm |