1961 BMW 501 vs. 1969 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1969 Lotus Elan is newer by 8 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, 1969 Lotus Elan (118 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 456 kg more than 1969 Lotus Elan.
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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Lotus Elan. (146 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 1969 Lotus Elan | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 501 | Elan |
Year Released | 1961 | 1969 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1558 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 118 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 146 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 889 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1200 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 59 L |