1961 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Jensen SV-8
To start off, 2002 Jensen SV-8 is newer by 41 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Jensen SV-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Jensen SV-8 (321 HP) has 221 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Jensen SV-8 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2002 Jensen SV-8.
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, 2002 Jensen SV-8 (439 Nm) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2002 Jensen SV-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2002 Jensen SV-8 | |
| Make | BMW | Jensen |
| Model | 501 | SV-8 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 321 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
