1961 BMW 501 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP) has 68 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1961 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1961 BMW 501 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
Model | 501 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
Torque | 182 Nm | 225 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |