1955 BMW 502 vs. 1999 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 44 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 5,598 cc (12 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen W12 (414 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 314 more horse power than 1955 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 502.
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 | 1999 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 502 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 5598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1050 mm |
