1976 BMW 630 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 1976 BMW 630 is newer by 15 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 630 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 BMW 630 (173 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1976 BMW 630 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 630 weights approximately 113 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, 1976 BMW 630 (251 Nm) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1976 BMW 630 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 630 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 630 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2840 mm |
