1952 Porsche 356 vs. 1999 BMW Z3
To start off, 1999 BMW Z3 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW Z3 (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW Z3 weights approximately 850 kg more than 1952 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 BMW Z3 (180 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Porsche 356. (106 Nm). This means 1999 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 1999 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 356 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 63 L |
