1971 BMW 3 vs. 1957 Porsche 356
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1957 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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1957 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 3 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1957 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1581 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2110 mm |
