1955 Porsche 550 A vs. 2012 BMW 740
To start off, 2012 BMW 740 is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 740 (315 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 740 weights approximately 1405 kg more than 1955 Porsche 550 A. 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. 2012 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1955 Porsche 550 A has manual transmission. 1955 Porsche 550 A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 550 A | 2012 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 550 A | 740 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 315 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5215 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 3210 mm |
