1961 BMW 501 vs. 1979 Lincoln Continental
To start off, 1979 Lincoln Continental is newer by 18 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 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Lincoln Continental is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Lincoln Continental (138 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Lincoln Continental should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Lincoln Continental weights approximately 555 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, 1979 Lincoln Continental (359 Nm) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1979 Lincoln Continental will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1979 Lincoln Continental | |
| Make | BMW | Lincoln |
| Model | 501 | Continental |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5766 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1990 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2990 mm |
