2003 BMW 520 vs. 1956 BMW 502
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 47 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, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 284 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. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1956 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1956 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1956 BMW 502 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 502 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
