1963 BMW 502 vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1963 BMW 502. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 BMW 502 weights approximately 266 kg more than 2009 Volkswagen T5.
Because 1963 BMW 502 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1963 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 BMW 502. (240 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 BMW 502.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 BMW 502 | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 502 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
