1952 Porsche 356 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 59 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (176 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 505 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. 2011 BMW 120 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. 2011 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 356 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 51 L |
