1958 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 501 would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 595 kg more than 1958 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1958 BMW 501 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 501 | S |
Year Released | 1958 | 2002 |
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 | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 460 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 2000 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3090 mm |