2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1952 BMW 501
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 501 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 320 kg more than 1952 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1952 BMW 501 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
| Model | 159 | 501 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1858 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
