1961 BMW 501 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 47 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP) has 128 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 255 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.
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, 2008 BMW 330 (500 Nm) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 228 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 61 L |
