1981 BMW 520 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 1981 BMW 520 is newer by 20 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, 1981 BMW 520 (123 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1981 BMW 520.
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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 520 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 110 L |
