1957 BMW 502 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1957 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 502.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1957 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1957 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 502 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 502 | SL |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
