1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 GMC Sierra
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra 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 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (302 HP) has 202 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 966 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.
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 GMC Sierra (413 Nm) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 GMC Sierra | |
| Make | BMW | GMC |
| Model | 501 | Sierra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 302 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 413 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2311 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5847 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2032 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1875 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3645 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 98 L |
