1961 BMW 501 vs. 2006 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2006 Porsche Cayman 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 2,686 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Porsche Cayman (242 HP) has 142 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2006 Porsche Cayman.
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, 2006 Porsche Cayman (273 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2006 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2006 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 242 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 273 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 64 L |
