2001 Audi A8 vs. 1959 Steyr 500

To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Steyr 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Steyr 500 would be higher. At 3,695 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (256 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1959 Steyr 500. (16 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1959 Steyr 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A8 weights approximately 1385 kg more than 1959 Steyr 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1959 Steyr 500 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 1959 Steyr 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, 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 A8 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Steyr 500. (32 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Steyr 500. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1959 Steyr 500 has manual transmission. 1959 Steyr 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Audi A8 1959 Steyr 500
Make Audi Steyr
Model A8 500
Year Released 2001 1959
Engine Size 3695 cc 491 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 256 HP 16 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 32 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 2800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 445 kg
Vehicle Length 5040 mm 2970 mm
Vehicle Width 1890 mm 1330 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2410 mm 1850 mm