1961 BMW 501 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 50 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, 2011 BMW 120 (154 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2011 BMW 120.
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, 2011 BMW 120 (200 Nm) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 154 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 53 L |
