2004 BMW M3 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 48 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 1015 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 52 L |
