1961 BMW 501 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 36 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (115 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 695 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (145 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 501 | C21 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 145 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1060 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |