2009 Audi A4 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 53 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (252 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 510 kg more than 2009 Audi A4.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Audi A4 (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A4 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3189 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2840 mm |
