1956 BMW 502 vs. 1981 BMW 745
To start off, 1981 BMW 745 is newer by 25 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 174 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 502 | 1981 BMW 745 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 745 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3430 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 100 L |
