1957 BMW 501 vs. 1999 Alpina B 12
To start off, 1999 Alpina B 12 is newer by 42 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1957 BMW 501.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 501 | 1999 Alpina B 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Alpina |
| Model | 501 | B 12 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 469 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
