1951 Porsche 356 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 1956 Porsche 356 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,300 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Porsche 356 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1956 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:
| 1951 Porsche 356 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1287 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 0 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 830 kg | 730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 52 L |
