1961 BMW 501 vs. 1978 Porsche 936
To start off, 1978 Porsche 936 is newer by 17 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, 1978 Porsche 936 (573 HP) has 473 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Porsche 936 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1978 Porsche 936.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1978 Porsche 936 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 936 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2142 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 573 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 700 kg |
