2006 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 50 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, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 180 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, 2006 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 (265 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1585 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
