2001 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 2001 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 501 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (113 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1958 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156. (144 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 BMW 501 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 501 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1958 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 113 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.6 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |