1961 BMW 501 vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 29 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, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1990 BMW 316.
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 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 70 L |
