1961 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Honda Civic

To start off, 2011 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic (140 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 126 kg more than 2011 Honda Civic.

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, 2011 Honda Civic, 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 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Honda Civic. (173 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Honda Civic.

Compare all specifications:

1961 BMW 501 2011 Honda Civic
Make BMW Honda
Model 501 Civic
Year Released 1961 2011
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2580 cc 1800 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 100 HP 140 HP
Torque 182 Nm 173 Nm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1345 kg 1219 kg
Vehicle Length 4740 mm 4503 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1753 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1435 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2700 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 110 L 50 L