1958 BMW 502 vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1971 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 502 would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1958 BMW 502. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 175 kg more than 1958 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:
| 1958 BMW 502 | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 502 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
