2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 44 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, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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, 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 (275 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1910 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 275 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
