1971 Autobianchi A 112 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 1971 Autobianchi A 112 is newer by 15 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 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1971 Autobianchi A 112. (41 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1956 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1971 Autobianchi A 112. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 501 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1971 Autobianchi A 112. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Autobianchi A 112, 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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Autobianchi A 112. (70 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Autobianchi A 112.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Autobianchi A 112 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Autobianchi | BMW |
| Model | A 112 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 655 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3280 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2840 mm |
