1949 Porsche 356 vs. 1954 Porsche 356
To start off, 1954 Porsche 356 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,486 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Porsche 356 (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1954 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Porsche 356 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1954 Porsche 356.
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:
| 1949 Porsche 356 | 1954 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1486 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2110 mm |
