2004 Audi A3 vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1957 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Audi A3 (230 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Audi A3 | 1957 BMW 501 | |
Make | Audi | BMW |
Model | A3 | 501 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1983 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |