1961 BMW 502 vs. 2012 BMW 123
To start off, 2012 BMW 123 is newer by 51 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, 2012 BMW 123 (202 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 123 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 123 weights approximately 85 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 | 2012 BMW 123 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | 123 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 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 | 100 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1423 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
