1954 BMW 502 vs. 1955 Citroen DS
To start off, 1955 Citroen DS is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,578 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1955 Citroen DS. (74 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1955 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 BMW 502 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1955 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 BMW 502 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1954 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 Citroen DS, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 BMW 502 | 1955 Citroen DS | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 502 | DS |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2578 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
