2008 BMW 130 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 2008 BMW 130 is newer by 47 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 130 (268 HP) has 168 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 130 weights approximately 30 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, 2008 BMW 130 (320 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 130 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 130 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 110 L |
