1961 BMW 501 vs. 2009 Ford E-350
To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 is newer by 48 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 379 kg more than 2009 Ford E-350.
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, 2009 Ford E-350 (475 Nm) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2009 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2009 Ford E-350 | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | E-350 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 255 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 475 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 2120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 132 L |
