1961 BMW 501 vs. 2000 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Trans Am weights approximately 2 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 Trans Am (454 Nm) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2000 Pontiac Trans Am 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 Trans Am | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 501 | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 454 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1347 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 54 L |
