1961 BMW 501 vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 35 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Because 1961 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | BMW | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 501 | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 141 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
