1961 BMW 501 vs. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1961 BMW 501 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 (115 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1961 BMW 501. 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220. (172 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1959 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | 220 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 100 L |
