1956 BMW 502 vs. 1968 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1968 Buick Riviera is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 502 would be higher. At 7,050 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Buick Riviera (305 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Buick Riviera weights approximately 484 kg more than 1956 BMW 502. 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. 1968 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1956 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1956 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 502 | 1968 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 502 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 7050 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3030 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
