2005 Audi A8 vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 2005 Audi A8 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Audi A8 (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 334 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 650 kg more than 1955 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 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. 2005 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 501 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 501 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Type | W | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2840 mm |
