1952 Ferrari 212 vs. 1961 Porsche 356
To start off, 1961 Porsche 356 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 2,561 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 212 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 212 (163 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 212 should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Ferrari 212 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1961 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:
| 1952 Ferrari 212 | 1961 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Ferrari | Porsche |
| Model | 212 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2561 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 159 L | 52 L |
