1961 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2001 Porsche 996 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP) has 217 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 80 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, 2001 Porsche 996 (370 Nm) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2001 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 370 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2360 mm |
