2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1958 BMW Isetta
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 2,959 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP) has 204 more horse power than 1958 BMW Isetta. (13 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 1190 kg more than 1958 BMW Isetta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 BMW Isetta 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 Isetta. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166, 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. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 has automatic transmission and 1958 BMW Isetta has manual transmission. 1958 BMW Isetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1958 BMW Isetta | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | Isetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2959 cc | 247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 1 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | single |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 13 HP |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 85 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 1 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 2300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 1510 mm |
