1961 BMW 501 vs. 1973 Tatra T603
To start off, 1973 Tatra T603 is newer by 12 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Tatra T603 (104 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Tatra T603 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Tatra T603 weights approximately 125 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Tatra T603. (170 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Tatra T603.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1973 Tatra T603 | |
| Make | BMW | Tatra |
| Model | 501 | T603 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
