2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1956 BMW 503
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1956 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 503 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 503. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (385 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 503. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1956 BMW 503 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 503 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
