1961 BMW 502 vs. 1959 Jaguar XK
To start off, 1961 BMW 502 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Jaguar XK (251 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Jaguar XK weights approximately 63 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 1959 Jaguar XK | |
| Make | BMW | Jaguar |
| Model | 502 | XK |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 3442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1473 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2600 mm |
