1959 BMW 502 vs. 1972 Buick Riviera
To start off, 1972 Buick Riviera is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 502 would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Buick Riviera (250 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Buick Riviera weights approximately 630 kg more than 1959 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. 1972 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1959 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 502 | 1972 Buick Riviera | |
| Make | BMW | Buick |
| Model | 502 | Riviera |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 7468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 5550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
