1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo 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, 1961 BMW 501 (100 HP) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (71 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Smart ForTwo. (125 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | BMW | Smart |
| Model | 501 | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 71 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
