1989 Audi V8 vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 1989 Audi V8 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,562 cc (8 cylinders), 1989 Audi V8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Audi V8 (251 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Audi V8 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Audi V8 weights approximately 305 kg more than 1958 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Audi V8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi V8 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, 1989 Audi V8 (340 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Audi V8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Audi V8 | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | V8 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3562 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
