1961 BMW 501 vs. 1977 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1977 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 16 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 80 kg more than 1977 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1977 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1977 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | 501 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 27 L |
