1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 SSC Tuatara
To start off, 2012 SSC Tuatara 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 6,932 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 SSC Tuatara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 SSC Tuatara (1,350 HP) has 1250 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 SSC Tuatara should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 98 kg more than 2012 SSC Tuatara.
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 SSC Tuatara (1,042 Nm) has 860 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 SSC Tuatara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 SSC Tuatara | |
| Make | BMW | SSC |
| Model | 501 | Tuatara |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 6932 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 1350 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 1042 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1092 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2667 mm |
