1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP) has 183 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 739 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.
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 Volkswagen Routan, 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 Volkswagen Routan (352 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Volkswagen Routan | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Routan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 283 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 2084 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5144 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1953 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 78 L |
