1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1963 BMW 502
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 35 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (240 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1963 BMW 502. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 BMW 502 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1998 BMW Z3.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1998 BMW Z3 (320 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 BMW 502. (240 Nm). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 BMW 502.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1963 BMW 502 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | Z3 | 502 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
