1961 BMW 501 vs. 1972 Rover 3.5
To start off, 1972 Rover 3.5 is newer by 11 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 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Rover 3.5 (150 HP) has 50 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 290 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, 1972 Rover 3.5 (276 Nm) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1972 Rover 3.5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1972 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 501 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 276 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |
