The BMW 502 V8, a classic German luxury car, was first introduced in 1954 and is considered one of the first German post-war vehicles with a V8 engine. Production of this generation lasted until 1964. Back then, the BMW 502 not only impressed with its luxurious features but also with its outstanding technology. The car had an advanced 3.2-liter V8 engine, delivering a maximum power of 120 horsepower (89 kW) that enabled an impressive top speed of 160 km/h (100 mph). It's worth noting that this engine was developed by Chrysler engineer Alex von Falkenhausen. Thanks to the aluminum block, the engine was lightweight yet powerful. Interestingly, the BMW 502 was one of the first vehicles in its class to come standard with a power brake booster, significantly enhancing driving safety. Its predecessor was the BMW 501, also known as the "Baroque Angel," which was produced from 1952 until the introduction of the BMW 502.
The first year of production for the BMW 502 was 1954, a year that also witnessed interesting historical events. To give you a sense of the car's age, here are three significant events: Joao Havelange won the presidency of FIFA on May 7, 1954. That year also saw the first issue of "Sports Illustrated," a famous sports magazine in the USA, hit newsstands. Additionally, 1954 marked the birth year of the well-known song "Rock Around the Clock" by Bill Haley & His Comets. These examples highlight the temporal context and the age of the BMW 502, placing it within a dynamic and historical period.
For miniature and model car collectors, this 1/18 scale model is particularly appealing. Made by AUTOart, this model of the BMW 502 shines with high attention to detail. Rich in precise details, as you can see in the pictures, the model is painted in a shiny silver color, reflecting the luxury and elegance of the original. The doors, hood, and trunk can be opened, providing a glimpse into the intricately designed interiors. The standout feature is the blue interior, adorned with fine accents and wood trims. This miniature is said to be based on a mix of materials, contributing to its high level of detail accuracy and authenticity. Collectors on the Modelly platform, like "woodchuck," appreciate such precise replicas for their authenticity and the special care taken in their production.
In creating the 1/18 model of the BMW 502, AUTOart focused on faithfully reproducing the historical heritage and technical refinements. Every aspect of the model, from the grille to the wheels, showcases the precision and attention to detail that distinguish AUTOart. The model's wheels are styled after the original steel wheels, carrying the unmistakable 1950s character. The model's paintwork is particularly noteworthy as it perfectly captures the sweeping lines and aesthetics of the original. In the photos, you can see that the model is adorned with a shiny metallic finish, reflecting the luxury and elegance of the real BMW 502. Another special feature is the rear trunk lid, which opens backward like the original, along with the easily accessible engine compartment, making the model even more attractive to collectors.