2007 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1956 BMW 501
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 is newer by 51 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 weights approximately 135 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, 2007 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1956 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 166 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3166 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 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 |
