1978 BMW 730 vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196
To start off, 1978 BMW 730 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1978 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 730. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 730 | 1955 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | |
| Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 730 | W 196 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1955 |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 720 kg |
