1956 BMW 502 vs. 2005 BMW 520
To start off, 2005 BMW 520 is newer by 49 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, 2005 BMW 520 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 520 weights approximately 144 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 | 2005 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
