1956 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 49 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (362 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 1020 kg more than 1956 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (525 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | G |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 525 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
