1961 BMW 501 vs. 1990 BMW 520
To start off, 1990 BMW 520 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, 1990 BMW 520 (145 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 197 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, 1990 BMW 520 (186 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1990 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1990 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
