1961 BMW 502 vs. 2012 BMW X5
To start off, 2012 BMW X5 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X5 (555 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 455 more horse power than 1961 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X5 weights approximately 1025 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.
Because 2012 BMW X5 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 BMW 502. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X5 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW X5 has automatic transmission and 1961 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1961 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 502 | 2012 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 502 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 555 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 2435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4851 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1994 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1763 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2933 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 85 L |
