1987 Alfa Romeo 33 vs. 1961 BMW 501
To start off, 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 is newer by 26 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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 (118 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1961 BMW 501. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 501 weights approximately 368 kg more than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33.
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, 1987 Alfa Romeo 33, 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, 1961 BMW 501 (182 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33. (148 Nm). This means 1961 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Alfa Romeo 33.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Alfa Romeo 33 | 1961 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 33 | 501 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1712 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 977 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2840 mm |
