1961 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Panoz AIV
To start off, 2001 Panoz AIV is newer by 40 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Panoz AIV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Panoz AIV (301 HP) has 201 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Panoz AIV should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 165 kg more than 2001 Panoz AIV.
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, 2001 Panoz AIV (407 Nm) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2001 Panoz AIV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2001 Panoz AIV | |
| Make | BMW | Panoz |
| Model | 501 | AIV |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 301 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 59 L |
