1956 BMW 503 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 503 would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (286 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 800 kg more than 1956 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML 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 ML (511 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1956 BMW 503 has manual transmission. 1956 BMW 503 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 503 | ML |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2300 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 93 L |
