1961 BMW 501 vs. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166
To start off, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 38 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (190 HP) has 90 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 175 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166, 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, 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 (226 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 501. (182 Nm). This means 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 501 | 1999 Alfa Romeo 166 | |
| Make | BMW | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | 501 | 166 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 110 L | 72 L |
