2001 Audi A3 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2001 Audi A3 is newer by 45 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 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (113 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 180 kg more than 2001 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A3, 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, 2001 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Audi A3 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 501 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3166 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 75 mm |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |