1956 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Audi S8
To start off, 2011 Audi S8 is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2011 Audi S8.
Because 2011 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi S8 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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2011 Audi S8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 501 | S8 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 5204 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 450 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
