1961 BMW 501 vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 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 5,200 cc (10 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (560 HP) has 460 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501.
Because 2012 Audi R8 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 R8 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 R8 (539 Nm) has 357 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 2012 Audi R8 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 R8 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 501 | R8 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 560 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 539 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1267 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 75 L |
