2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1957 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 BMW 501. 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 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1957 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
