1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1959 BMW 501
To start off, 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 501 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1959 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | BMW |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | 501 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2840 mm |
