1951 Porsche 356 vs. 1972 Porsche 914
To start off, 1972 Porsche 914 is newer by 21 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Porsche 914 (108 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1951 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Porsche 914 should accelerate faster than 1951 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Porsche 914 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1951 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:
| 1951 Porsche 356 | 1972 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 914 |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 61 L |
