1956 BMW 502 vs. 2012 Volvo XC70
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC70 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC70 (240 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1956 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70 should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC70 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1956 BMW 502. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC70, 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. 2012 Volvo XC70 has automatic transmission and 1956 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1956 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC70 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 BMW 502 | 2012 Volvo XC70 | |
| Make | BMW | Volvo |
| Model | 502 | XC70 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 1881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4838 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1862 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1604 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2815 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
