1961 BMW 501 vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP) has 147 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
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 Lotus M250 (321 Nm) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1999 Lotus M250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 501 | M250 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 247 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 321 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1180 mm |
