1961 BMW 501 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 38 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP) has 202 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 509 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 460 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 | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 88 L |
