1961 BMW 501 vs. 1988 BMW M6
To start off, 1988 BMW M6 is newer by 27 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 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M6 (282 HP) has 182 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M6 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M6 weights approximately 160 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, 1988 BMW M6 (334 Nm) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1988 BMW M6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1988 BMW M6 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | M6 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 282 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 70 L |
