1961 BMW 501 vs. 1970 Buick Centurion
To start off, 1970 Buick Centurion is newer by 9 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 7,467 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Buick Centurion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Buick Centurion (225 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Buick Centurion should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Buick Centurion weights approximately 725 kg more than 1961 BMW 501. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1970 Buick Centurion (498 Nm) has 316 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1970 Buick Centurion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1970 Buick Centurion | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 501 | Centurion |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 498 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3160 mm |
