1963 BMW 502 vs. 2008 Saturn Astra
To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra is newer by 45 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, 1963 BMW 502 (158 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 BMW 502 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Saturn 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, 1963 BMW 502 (240 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1963 BMW 502 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 BMW 502 | 2008 Saturn Astra | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 502 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 46 L |
