1961 BMW 501 vs. 1951 Bristol 401
To start off, 1961 BMW 501 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Bristol 401. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Bristol 401 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 28 more horse power than 1951 Bristol 401. (72 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1951 Bristol 401. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1951 Bristol 401. 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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Bristol 401. (145 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Bristol 401.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 1951 Bristol 401 | |
Make | BMW | Bristol |
Model | 501 | 401 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1951 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 72 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 145 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1530 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2900 mm |