1956 BMW 502 vs. 1988 Buick Reatta
To start off, 1988 Buick Reatta is newer by 32 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick Reatta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick Reatta (165 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick Reatta weights approximately 120 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.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Buick Reatta, 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. 1988 Buick Reatta 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. 1988 Buick Reatta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 502 | 1988 Buick Reatta | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 502 | Reatta |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 69 L |
