2004 Audi S4 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2004 Audi S4 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 4,170 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Audi S4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi S4 (339 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 201 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi S4 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi S4 weights approximately 350 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 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 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, 2004 Audi S4 (410 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Audi S4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi S4 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S4 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4170 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2840 mm |
