2009 Audi A8 vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 52 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 3,936 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (271 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 535 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 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 BMW 501. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Audi A8 (650 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1957 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3936 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 650 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
