1961 BMW 501 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 32 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 35 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz C (210 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | C |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 62 L |
