2006 BMW M3 vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 1050 kg more than 1956 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | M3 | 550 A |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2110 mm |
