1998 Audi A6 vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 1998 Audi A6 is newer by 40 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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 1958 BMW 501 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1958 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Audi A6, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Audi A6 (265 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A6 | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2459 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
