1955 BMW 502 vs. 1997 Fiat Barchetta
To start off, 1997 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1955 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 502 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1997 Fiat Barchetta.
Because 1955 BMW 502 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 1955 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Fiat Barchetta, 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:
| 1955 BMW 502 | 1997 Fiat Barchetta | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 502 | Barchetta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2280 mm |
