1959 BMW 502 vs. 1990 Mercury Tracer
To start off, 1990 Mercury Tracer is newer by 31 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, 1959 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Tracer. (88 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 502 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1990 Mercury Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 502 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mercury Tracer, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 | 1990 Mercury Tracer | |
| Make | BMW | Mercury |
| Model | 502 | Tracer |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
