1949 Porsche 356 vs. 2001 Porsche 996
To start off, 2001 Porsche 996 is newer by 52 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 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Porsche 996 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1949 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:
| 1949 Porsche 356 | 2001 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 996 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6800 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2360 mm |
