1963 BMW 502 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 43 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, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1963 BMW 502. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1963 BMW 502. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1963 BMW 502. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 BMW 502. (240 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 BMW 502.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 BMW 502 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
