2001 Audi A6 vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 2001 Audi A6 is newer by 43 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, 2001 Audi A6 (216 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A6 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A6 weights approximately 115 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 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, 2001 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, 2001 Audi A6 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A6 | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A6 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2974 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
