1955 BMW 501 vs. 2005 Audi A3
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,188 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A3 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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. 2005 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 501 | 2005 Audi A3 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 501 | A3 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
