1961 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Donkervoort D8
To start off, 2003 Donkervoort D8 is newer by 42 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, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Donkervoort D8 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 715 kg more than 2003 Donkervoort D8.
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, 2003 Donkervoort D8 (210 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2003 Donkervoort D8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2003 Donkervoort D8 | |
| Make | BMW | Donkervoort |
| Model | 501 | D8 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2310 mm |
