1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 520 weights approximately 940 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356.
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 520 has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 356 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 182 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
