1963 BMW 502 vs. 2004 Vauxhall Astra
To start off, 2004 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (168 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1963 BMW 502. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 BMW 502 weights approximately 105 kg more than 2004 Vauxhall Astra.
Because 1963 BMW 502 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1963 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Vauxhall Astra, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Vauxhall Astra (255 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 BMW 502. (240 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 BMW 502.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 BMW 502 | 2004 Vauxhall Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 502 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
