1957 BMW 502 vs. 1987 BMW 318
To start off, 1987 BMW 318 is newer by 30 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, 1987 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1957 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 502 weights approximately 444 kg more than 1987 BMW 318.
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 | 1987 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 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 | 1410 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
