1961 BMW 501 vs. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 (120 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 173 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230. (179 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1968 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2308 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 120 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1518 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3400 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 64 L |
