1959 BMW 502 vs. 1999 Lotus M250
To start off, 1999 Lotus M250 is newer by 40 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Lotus M250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Lotus M250 (247 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Lotus M250 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 502 weights approximately 460 kg more than 1999 Lotus M250.
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 | 1999 Lotus M250 | |
| Make | BMW | Lotus |
| Model | 502 | M250 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1180 mm |
