1952 BMW 340 vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 1958 Porsche 356 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Porsche 356 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1952 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 340 weights approximately 455 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356.
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:
| 1952 BMW 340 | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 340 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2110 mm |
