1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1955 BMW 502
To start off, 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1955 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 502 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
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:
| 1966 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1955 BMW 502 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | BMW |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | 502 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
