1961 BMW 501 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 52 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP) has 38 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 12 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 501 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2013 |
| 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 | 138 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 55 L |
