1961 BMW 502 vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is newer by 31 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 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 (296 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502.
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. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 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. 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1992 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 502 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
