1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Nissan NV
To start off, 2012 Nissan NV 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 Nissan NV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Nissan NV (317 HP) has 217 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan NV should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan NV weights approximately 1321 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 Nissan NV (521 Nm) has 339 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan NV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Nissan NV | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 501 | NV |
| 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 | 317 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 521 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2666 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 6111 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 2156 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3711 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 106 L |
