1961 BMW 501 vs. 1997 Land Rover Discovery
To start off, 1997 Land Rover Discovery 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 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Land Rover Discovery is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Land Rover Discovery (181 HP) has 81 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Land Rover Discovery should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Land Rover Discovery weights approximately 745 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.
Because 1997 Land Rover Discovery is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Land Rover Discovery will offer significantly more control. 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 Land Rover Discovery (321 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1997 Land Rover Discovery will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1997 Land Rover Discovery | |
| Make | BMW | Land Rover |
| Model | 501 | Discovery |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 181 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1920 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
