1989 Alfa Romeo SZ vs. 1955 BMW 501
To start off, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ is newer by 34 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1955 BMW 501. (110 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 501 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo SZ | 1955 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | SZ | 501 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2957 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
