1956 BMW 503 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP) has 130 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 705 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 R 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 R 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 R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 503 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 503 | R |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 268 HP |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 225 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 | 2205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |
