1961 BMW 501 vs. 1998 Dodge Viper
To start off, 1998 Dodge Viper 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 8,001 cc (10 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Viper (450 HP) has 350 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Viper should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 288 kg more than 1998 Dodge Viper.
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 Dodge Viper (664 Nm) has 482 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1998 Dodge Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1998 Dodge Viper | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 501 | Viper |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 8001 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 450 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 664 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1057 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 49 L |
