1961 BMW 501 vs. 1989 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1989 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 28 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (210 HP) has 110 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 555 kg more than 1989 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf 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, 1989 Volkswagen Golf (252 Nm) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1989 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1989 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 210 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
