2003 Audi TT vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 2003 Audi TT is newer by 45 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, 2003 Audi TT (161 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi TT should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Audi TT.
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, 2003 Audi TT, 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, 2003 Audi TT (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Audi TT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi TT | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | TT | 501 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2840 mm |
