1961 BMW 501 vs. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164
To start off, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (123 HP) has 23 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1961 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 BMW 501 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 1961 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 (294 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1988 Alfa Romeo 164 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 501 | 164 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 70 L |
