2005 Alfa Romeo 147 vs. 1958 BMW 501
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 is newer by 47 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1958 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 501 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2005 Alfa Romeo 147.
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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147, 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 147 | 1958 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 147 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 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 | 1365 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2840 mm |
