1959 BMW 502 vs. 1949 Porsche 356
To start off, 1959 BMW 502 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 BMW 502 (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 502 weights approximately 630 kg more than 1949 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.
Compare all specifications:
1959 BMW 502 | 1949 Porsche 356 | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | 502 | 356 |
Year Released | 1959 | 1949 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1131 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 780 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2110 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 79 L |