1952 Porsche 356 vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 52 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 650 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. 2004 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1952 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1952 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 2004 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 356 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 63 L |
