1959 BMW 501 vs. 1952 Porsche 356
To start off, 1959 BMW 501 is newer by 7 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 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 501 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 501 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1952 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 501 | 1952 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 501 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 59 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2110 mm |
