1954 BMW 502 vs. 1961 Chevrolet Corvair
To start off, 1961 Chevrolet Corvair is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,578 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 BMW 502 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1961 Chevrolet Corvair. 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:
| 1954 BMW 502 | 1961 Chevrolet Corvair | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 502 | Corvair |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2578 cc | 2368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
