1961 BMW 501 vs. 2000 Ford Contour
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 39 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, 2000 Ford Contour (128 HP) has 28 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 97 kg more than 2000 Ford Contour.
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, 2000 Ford Contour, 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2000 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
