1961 BMW 501 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Golf 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 6 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.
Because 1961 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volkswagen Golf (311 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1999 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1351 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
