1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2012 Ford Fiesta 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 Ford Fiesta (120 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 176 kg more than 2012 Ford Fiesta.
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, 2012 Ford Fiesta, 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Fiesta. (152 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 501 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| 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 | 120 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 152 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 | 1169 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4409 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1697 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 45 L |
