1961 BMW 501 vs. 1987 Porsche 959
To start off, 1987 Porsche 959 is newer by 26 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 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Porsche 959 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Porsche 959 (450 HP) has 350 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Porsche 959 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Porsche 959 weights approximately 105 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.
Because 1987 Porsche 959 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Porsche 959 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Porsche 959 (500 Nm) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1987 Porsche 959 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1987 Porsche 959 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 959 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 450 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
