1961 BMW 501 vs. 1998 BMW 320
To start off, 1998 BMW 320 is newer by 37 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, 1998 BMW 320 (134 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 320 weights approximately 131 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, 1998 BMW 320 (280 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1998 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1951 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 63 L |
