1961 BMW 502 vs. 1972 Rover 3.5
To start off, 1972 Rover 3.5 is newer by 11 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 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Rover 3.5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Rover 3.5 (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Rover 3.5 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Rover 3.5 weights approximately 225 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. 1972 Rover 3.5 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. 1972 Rover 3.5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1972 Rover 3.5 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 502 | 3.5 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2820 mm |
