1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS 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 Lexus IS (204 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 397 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 Lexus IS (251 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | BMW | Lexus |
| Model | 501 | IS |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 204 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 251 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 | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4633 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 65 L |
