1957 BMW 502 vs. 1949 Bristol 402
To start off, 1957 BMW 502 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Bristol 402. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Bristol 402 would be higher. At 2,579 cc (8 cylinders), 1957 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1949 Bristol 402. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1949 Bristol 402. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 502 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1949 Bristol 402. 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:
| 1957 BMW 502 | 1949 Bristol 402 | |
| Make | BMW | Bristol |
| Model | 502 | 402 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 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 | 1410 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 77 L |
