1957 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 835 kg more than 1957 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 BMW 501. 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 (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | R |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2860 mm |
