1961 BMW 501 vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1985 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 24 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, 1961 BMW 501 (100 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (95 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 458 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (132 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | 501 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 95 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2140 mm |
