1961 BMW 501 vs. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 45 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, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 267 kg more than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (210 Nm) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 501 | Cobalt |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 145 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 49 L |
