1961 BMW 501 vs. 1997 Holden Commodore
To start off, 1997 Holden Commodore 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Holden Commodore (197 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Holden Commodore weights approximately 265 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, 1997 Holden Commodore (304 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1997 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1997 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | BMW | Holden |
| Model | 501 | Commodore |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 304 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 | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
