1961 BMW 501 vs. 1980 Volvo 164
To start off, 1980 Volvo 164 is newer by 19 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 2,664 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 164 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 164 (138 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 164 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501.
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, 1980 Volvo 164 (204 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1980 Volvo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1980 Volvo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3350 mm |
