1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur
To start off, 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is newer by 51 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur (552 HP) has 452 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur weights approximately 1180 kg more than 1961 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur (650 Nm) has 468 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Bentley Continental Flying Spur | |
| Make | BMW | Bentley |
| Model | 501 | Continental Flying Spur |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 552 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 650 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5291 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1397 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2746 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 90 L |
