1961 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 503 kg more 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 SL (460 Nm) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | SL |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| 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 | 0 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 80 L |
