1961 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton (414 HP) has 314 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 1021 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.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (550 Nm) has 368 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2005 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 550 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 90 L |
