1958 BMW Isetta vs. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (238 HP) has 225 more horse power than 1958 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 1128 kg more than 1958 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 BMW Isetta 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 1958 BMW Isetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156, 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. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1958 BMW Isetta has manual transmission. 1958 BMW Isetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW Isetta | 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Isetta | 156 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | V |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 238 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 85 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2600 mm |
