1961 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Volvo S60
To start off, 2011 Volvo S60 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S60 weights approximately 264 kg more 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, 2011 Volvo S60, 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, 2011 Volvo S60 (240 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2011 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2011 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 501 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 240 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 | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2776 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 67 L |
