1956 BMW 501 vs. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159
To start off, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 55 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 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (256 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 443 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 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 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, 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 501 | 2011 Alfa Romeo 159 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 501 | 159 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 322 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
