1955 BMW 502 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 57 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, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1955 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1955 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 520 weights approximately 380 kg more than 1955 BMW 502. 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. 2012 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1955 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1955 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 BMW 502 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
