1956 BMW 502 vs. 1977 BMW 320
To start off, 1977 BMW 320 is newer by 21 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 BMW 320 (122 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 BMW 502 weights approximately 296 kg more than 1977 BMW 320.
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:
| 1956 BMW 502 | 1977 BMW 320 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
