1961 BMW 501 vs. 2001 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen W12 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen W12 (590 HP) has 490 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen W12.
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 Volkswagen W12 (620 Nm) has 438 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2001 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 2001 Volkswagen W12 | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 501 | W12 |
Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | W |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 590 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 620 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1200 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1110 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |