1961 BMW 501 vs. 2000 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Firebird 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 3,785 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (197 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 195 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, 2000 Pontiac Firebird (305 Nm) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2000 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2000 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 501 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3785 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 197 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 76 L |
