2004 Audi A4 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2004 Audi A4 is newer by 48 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, 2004 Audi A4 (170 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A4 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1956 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A4, 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 A4 (235 Nm) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm). This means 2004 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A4 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1784 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
