1961 BMW 501 vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1980 Volvo 260 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 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volvo 260 (146 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volvo 260 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 5 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (218 Nm) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1980 Volvo 260 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 260 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | 260 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2664 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 146 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
