2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 45 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 10 kg more than 1958 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider. (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1958 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1958 BMW 501 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | 501 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1958 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |