2009 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1957 BMW 501
To start off, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 501 would be higher. At 3,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (257 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1957 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 285 kg more than 1957 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider (322 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 501. (223 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1957 BMW 501 | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | BMW |
Model | Spider | 501 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3195 cc | 3168 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 257 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 322 Nm | 223 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1405 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1540 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2840 mm |