1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 Nissan Sentra (140 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 27 kg more than 2012 Nissan Sentra.
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 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2012 Nissan Sentra (199 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Nissan Sentra 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 Sentra | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 501 | Sentra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 140 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 199 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 | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4567 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1511 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
