1961 BMW 501 vs. 1966 Citroen DS
To start off, 1966 Citroen DS is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Citroen DS weights approximately 41 kg more than 1961 BMW 501.
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, 1966 Citroen DS, 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Citroen DS. (164 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1966 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 501 | DS |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 65 L |
