2004 BMW 316 vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 2004 BMW 316 is newer by 49 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 705 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 316 | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 316 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
