1961 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 47 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (382 HP) has 282 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (530 Nm) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 382 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 90 L |
