1957 BMW 502 vs. 1996 BMW Z3
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 39 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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW Z3 (201 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1957 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 BMW 502 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1996 BMW Z3.
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. 1996 BMW Z3 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. 1996 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 BMW 502 | 1996 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2579 cc | 2926 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1255 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
