1956 BMW 501 vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1956 BMW 501.
Because 1956 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | 300 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 2998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
