1961 BMW 501 vs. 1971 Ford GT 40
To start off, 1971 Ford GT 40 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ford GT 40 (350 HP) has 250 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 385 kg more than 1971 Ford GT 40.
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 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford GT 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1971 Ford GT 40 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | GT 40 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 350 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 980 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 125 L |
