1961 BMW 501 vs. 1970 Porsche 917
To start off, 1970 Porsche 917 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 4,994 cc, 1970 Porsche 917 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Porsche 917 (520 HP) has 420 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Porsche 917 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 547 kg more than 1970 Porsche 917.
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 Porsche 917 (610 Nm) has 428 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1970 Porsche 917 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1970 Porsche 917 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 917 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4994 cc |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 520 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 798 kg |
