1959 BMW 502 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 350 kg more than 1959 BMW 502. 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1959 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 502 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 502 | SL |
Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |