1961 BMW 502 vs. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500
To start off, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 502 would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 (265 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1961 BMW 502. 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. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 has automatic transmission and 1961 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1961 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1990 Mercedes-Benz 500 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 502 | 500 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2810 mm |
