1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 501 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 501 (110 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. (84 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 469 kg more than 1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alfa Romeo Alfasud | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | Alfasud | 501 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.2 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 876 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
