2003 BMW 320 vs. 1959 BMW 502
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1959 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. 2003 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1959 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 1959 BMW 502 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 320 | 502 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
