1961 BMW 501 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle 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, 1961 BMW 501 (100 HP) has 26 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 186 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
