1955 BMW 502 vs. 1957 Volvo 120
To start off, 1957 Volvo 120 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1957 Volvo 120. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1957 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 502 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1957 Volvo 120. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 502 | 1957 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 502 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
