1959 BMW 503 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 50 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1959 BMW 503. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1330 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.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 BMW 503. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 503 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 503 | GL |
Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 5461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 382 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 530 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 5100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3080 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 100 L |