1961 BMW 502 vs. 1970 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1970 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 502 would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1970 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 235 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 40 kg more than 1961 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. 1970 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1961 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1961 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1970 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 502 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
