1961 BMW 501 vs. 2005 BMW 535
To start off, 2005 BMW 535 is newer by 44 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 3,428 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 535 (241 HP) has 141 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 535 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1961 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 BMW 535 (330 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2005 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2005 BMW 535 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 535 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3428 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 241 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 70 L |
