1961 BMW 502 vs. 1971 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 1971 Reliant Rebel is newer by 10 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1971 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1971 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 502 weights approximately 835 kg more than 1971 Reliant Rebel. 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:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1971 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | 502 | Rebel |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
