1961 BMW 501 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 25 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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (160 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 278 kg more than 1986 Lotus Esprit.
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, 1986 Lotus Esprit (221 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
Make | BMW | Lotus |
Model | 501 | Esprit |
Year Released | 1961 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 160 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 221 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1067 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1120 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2490 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 31 L |