West Germany vs Germany — 1956 vs 1958
| 507 Roadster | 502 3.2 Liter V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 150 hp | 140 hp |
| Torque | 172 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,168 cc | 3,168 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 9.0 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 137 mph | 106 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | — |
| Weight | 2,932 lbs | 3,263 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,480 mm | 2,835 mm |
| Length | 4,380 mm | 4,860 mm |
| Units Produced | 252 | 3,967 |
| Original MSRP | $9,000 | $6,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $3,000,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 6/10 |
On balance, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster makes a stronger case on paper with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. However, the 1958 BMW 502 3.2 Liter V8 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster for outright capability, or the 1958 BMW 502 3.2 Liter V8 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
BMW has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster with the 1958 BMW 502 3.2 Liter V8 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster producing 150 hp and the 1958 BMW 502 3.2 Liter V8 delivering 140 hp. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster edges ahead at 9.0 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The BMW 507 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 331 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 252 units built, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster is considerably scarcer than the BMW 502's 3,967 examples. On the collector market, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster commands a significant premium over the 1958 BMW 502 3.2 Liter V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1956 BMW 507 Roadster rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.