1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501.
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, 2012 BMW 520 (380 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 501 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| 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 | 182 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 70 L |
