1956 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 56 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 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (345 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501.
Because 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 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, 2012 Audi A8 (800 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 578 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 501 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2992 mm |
