1959 BMW 502 vs. 1995 BMW M3
To start off, 1995 BMW M3 is newer by 36 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 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 55 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 502 | 1995 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
