1988 BMW Z1 vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1988 BMW Z1 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW Z1 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A. 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:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | Z1 | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2110 mm |
