1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 vs. 2003 BMW 520
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 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. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 has manual transmission. 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Alfa Romeo AR 51 | 2003 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | AR 51 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1884 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 105 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3530 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2730 mm |
