1961 BMW 501 vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Insignia (129 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501.
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, 2008 Opel Insignia, 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, 2008 Opel Insignia (300 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2008 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2008 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 501 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 129 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2737 mm |
