1959 BMW 502 vs. 1988 BMW 524
To start off, 1988 BMW 524 is newer by 29 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 502 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1988 BMW 524.
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:
| 1959 BMW 502 | 1988 BMW 524 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 524 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
