1957 BMW 503 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 503 would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1957 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 455 kg more than 1957 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (701 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 479 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1957 BMW 503 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 503 | SL |
Year Released | 1957 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5441 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 493 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 701 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1955 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 80 L |