1961 BMW 501 vs. 1971 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 1971 Chevrolet Corvette is newer by 10 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Chevrolet Corvette (330 HP) has 230 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 184 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, 1971 Chevrolet Corvette (488 Nm) has 306 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1971 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1971 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Corvette |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 330 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1529 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 68 L |
