2003 BMW 318 vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 2003 BMW 318 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 318 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1955 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. 2003 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1955 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1955 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 318 | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 318 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2110 mm |
