1957 BMW 502 vs. 1959 BMW 503
To start off, 1959 BMW 503 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 503 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 BMW 503 (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1957 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 503 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 503 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1957 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:
| 1957 BMW 502 | 1959 BMW 503 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 503 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 75 L |
