1961 BMW 501 vs. 1974 Chevrolet Nova
To start off, 1974 Chevrolet Nova is newer by 13 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 5,736 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Chevrolet Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (143 HP) has 43 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Chevrolet Nova should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Chevrolet Nova weights approximately 205 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, 1974 Chevrolet Nova (340 Nm) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1974 Chevrolet Nova will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1974 Chevrolet Nova | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5736 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 143 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
