1961 BMW 501 vs. 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster
To start off, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster 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 5,898 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster (173 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster weights approximately 455 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.
Because 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster will offer significantly more control. 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 Plymouth Trail Duster (373 Nm) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1974 Plymouth Trail Duster | |
| Make | BMW | Plymouth |
| Model | 501 | Trail Duster |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 173 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2700 mm |
