1993 BMW M5 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 1993 BMW M5 is newer by 32 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 3,795 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 BMW M5 (336 HP) has 236 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1993 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 BMW M5 weights approximately 380 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, 1993 BMW M5 (400 Nm) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1993 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 BMW M5 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M5 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3795 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 336 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 110 L |
