1955 Abarth 600 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 1961 BMW 501 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 BMW 501 (100 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1955 Abarth 600. (41 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1955 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 757 kg more than 1955 Abarth 600. 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Abarth 600. (54 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Abarth 600 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Abarth | BMW |
| Model | 600 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 588 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2840 mm |
