1961 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 BMW 520
To start off, 2012 BMW 520 is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 520 weights approximately 935 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1961 Porsche 356 | 2012 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Porsche | BMW |
| Model | 356 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
