1961 BMW 501 vs. 1999 GMC Safari
To start off, 1999 GMC Safari is newer by 38 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 4,291 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 GMC Safari is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 GMC Safari (187 HP) has 87 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 GMC Safari should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 GMC Safari weights approximately 610 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, 1999 GMC Safari (338 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1999 GMC Safari will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1999 GMC Safari | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 501 | Safari |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4291 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 187 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 338 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 98 L |
