1961 BMW 501 vs. 1955 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1961 BMW 501 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Wartburg 311. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Wartburg 311 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 51 more horse power than 1955 Wartburg 311. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1955 Wartburg 311. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1955 Wartburg 311. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Wartburg 311. (98 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Wartburg 311.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1955 Wartburg 311 | |
| Make | BMW | Wartburg |
| Model | 501 | 311 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
