2003 BMW 318 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 42 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, 2003 BMW 318 (113 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2003 BMW 318.
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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 318. (167 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 318 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 318 | 501 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 2580 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
Torque | 167 Nm | 182 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 110 L |