1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Audi A8
To start off, 2012 Audi A8 is newer by 51 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 4,134 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A8 (345 HP) has 245 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501.
Because 2012 Audi A8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 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) has 618 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 2012 Audi A8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 501 | A8 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4134 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 345 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5136 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1948 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2992 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 90 L |
