1952 BMW 501 vs. 1957 Porsche 356
To start off, 1957 Porsche 356 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 501 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1952 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 BMW 501 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 BMW 501 should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 BMW 501 weights approximately 495 kg more than 1957 Porsche 356. 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:
1952 BMW 501 | 1957 Porsche 356 | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | 501 | 356 |
Year Released | 1952 | 1957 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1581 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 72 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 74 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2110 mm |