2001 BMW 320 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1956 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. 2001 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 320 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
