1958 BMW 502 vs. 2012 BMW 120
To start off, 2012 BMW 120 is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1958 BMW 502. (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1958 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 120 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1958 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 502 | 2012 BMW 120 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
