2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 BMW 503
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 503. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 503 would be higher. At 3,458 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1958 BMW 503. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 503. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1958 BMW 503. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 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) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 503. (222 Nm). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 503.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 BMW 503 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 156 | 503 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3458 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 385 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |
