1959 BMW 502 vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 38 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 502 weights approximately 720 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
Make | BMW | Caterham |
Model | 502 | C21 |
Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 250 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 8000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 690 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3810 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1060 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2260 mm |