1961 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 100 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 191 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (310 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1154 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 45 L |
