1961 BMW 502 vs. 2002 BMW 318
To start off, 2002 BMW 318 is newer by 41 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, 2002 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 60 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 2002 BMW 318 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
