1955 Porsche 356 vs. 1961 Porsche 718
To start off, 1961 Porsche 718 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Porsche 718 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Porsche 718 (146 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Porsche 718 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Porsche 356 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1961 Porsche 718.
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:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 1961 Porsche 718 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 718 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1585 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7500 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 | 760 kg | 590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 990 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 52 L |
