1961 BMW 501 vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 17 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 130 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 (241 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 65 L |
