1996 BMW 318 vs. 1956 BMW 502
To start off, 1996 BMW 318 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1956 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 318 weights approximately 29 kg more than 1956 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:
| 1996 BMW 318 | 1956 BMW 502 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | 502 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
