1961 BMW 501 vs. 1976 Chrysler Valiant
To start off, 1976 Chrysler Valiant is newer by 15 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 5,209 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Chrysler Valiant is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (227 HP) has 127 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Chrysler Valiant should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Chrysler Valiant weights approximately 255 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, 1976 Chrysler Valiant (470 Nm) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1976 Chrysler Valiant will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1976 Chrysler Valiant | |
| Make | BMW | Chrysler |
| Model | 501 | Valiant |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5209 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 227 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 470 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
