1961 BMW 501 vs. 1961 Wartburg 312
To start off, both 1961 BMW 501 and 1961 Wartburg 312 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 64 more horse power than 1961 Wartburg 312. (36 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1961 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 312, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Wartburg 312. (81 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 1961 Wartburg 312 | |
Make | BMW | Wartburg |
Model | 501 | 312 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 900 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 36 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 81 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 960 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 |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 40 L |