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 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 503 (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (114 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 503 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 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 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, 1958 BMW 503 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 503 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Alfa Romeo 156.
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 | 1598 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 146 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 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 75 L |
