1961 BMW 501 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1981 Mazda RX-7 is newer by 20 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, 1981 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP) has 4 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 501 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 104 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 65 L |
