1957 BMW 502 vs. 1978 Fiat 131
To start off, 1978 Fiat 131 is newer by 21 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 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 41 more horse power than 1978 Fiat 131. (59 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 502 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1978 Fiat 131. 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. 1978 Fiat 131 has automatic transmission and 1957 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1957 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat 131 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 502 | 1978 Fiat 131 | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 502 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
