1997 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1959 BMW 503
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 BMW 503 (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. (134 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 503 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 1959 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 (304 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1959 BMW 503 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 503 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |