1961 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Noble M12
To start off, 2003 Noble M12 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Noble M12 (335 HP) has 235 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2003 Noble M12.
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 Noble M12 (485 Nm) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2003 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2003 Noble M12 | |
| Make | BMW | Noble |
| Model | 501 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 335 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2440 mm |
