1961 BMW 501 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 49 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 110 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK (299 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 501 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 299 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 | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4102 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1788 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2431 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 70 L |
