2001 BMW M3 vs. 1958 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 990 kg more than 1958 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. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1958 Porsche 550 A has manual transmission. 1958 Porsche 550 A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW M3 | 1958 Porsche 550 A | |
Make | BMW | Porsche |
Model | M3 | 550 A |
Year Released | 2001 | 1958 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7200 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2110 mm |