2001 BMW 320 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 40 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, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 160 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, 2001 BMW 320 (330 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 110 L |
