1959 BMW 503 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 503 would be higher. At 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 465 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 620 kg more than 1959 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 778 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 503 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 503 | SL |
Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 604 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2120 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 |