1955 Porsche 356 vs. 1997 Rover 800
To start off, 1997 Rover 800 is newer by 42 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Rover 800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 800 (173 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Rover 800 weights approximately 685 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Porsche 356 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1997 Rover 800 has automatic transmission and 1955 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1955 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Rover 800 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 1997 Rover 800 | |
| Make | Porsche | Rover |
| Model | 356 | 800 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2780 mm |
