1949 Austin A 90 vs. 1955 BMW 502
To start off, 1955 BMW 502 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Austin A 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Austin A 90 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1949 Austin A 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 90. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin A 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 502 weights approximately 51 kg more than 1949 Austin A 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1949 Austin A 90 | 1955 BMW 502 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 90 | 502 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 70 L |
