1961 BMW 501 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 5,584 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP) has 320 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 193 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
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 Volkswagen W12 (530 Nm) has 348 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1152 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1010 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
