1961 BMW 502 vs. 1966 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1966 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1961 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 BMW 502 (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 BMW 502 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen 1600. 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 | 1966 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 502 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
