2003 Audi A3 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 47 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 38 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 200 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3 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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Audi A3. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A3 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 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 |
