2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,166 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1956 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1956 BMW 501 (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1956 BMW 501 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | 156 | 501 |
Year Released | 2005 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2490 cc | 3166 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 185 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 221 Nm | 222 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 75 mm |
Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2840 mm |