1955 BMW 502 vs. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 5 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 70 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 BMW 502 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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 | 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 502 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2430 mm |
