1972 AMC Matador vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 1972 AMC Matador is newer by 11 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 6,571 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AMC Matador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AMC Matador (255 HP) has 155 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 AMC Matador should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AMC Matador weights approximately 285 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.
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, 1972 AMC Matador (469 Nm) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1972 AMC Matador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 AMC Matador | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | AMC | BMW |
| Model | Matador | 501 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6571 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 469 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 110 L |
