1961 BMW 501 vs. 1961 Chevrolet Corvair
To start off, both 1961 BMW 501 and 1961 Chevrolet Corvair were released in the same year (1961). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. 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 19 more horse power than 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 175 kg more than 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1961 Chevrolet Corvair | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Corvair |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 81 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 61 L |
