1961 BMW 501 vs. 1998 BMW 330
To start off, 1998 BMW 330 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 330 (189 HP) has 89 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 330 weights approximately 270 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 330 (400 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 330 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 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 189 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1615 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 |
