1986 BMW M5 vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 1986 BMW M5 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,428 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M5 weights approximately 664 kg more than 1959 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. 1986 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M5 | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M5 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3428 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 120 L | 52 L |
