1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 985 kg more than 1956 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 550 A | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 550 A | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 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 | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| 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 | 605 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2497 mm |
