1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Infiniti M
To start off, 2012 Infiniti M 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 5,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Infiniti M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Infiniti M (420 HP) has 320 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Infiniti M should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Infiniti M weights approximately 478 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 Infiniti M (565 Nm) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Infiniti M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Infiniti M | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 501 | M |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 565 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1823 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4945 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1844 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2901 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 76 L |
