1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 56 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1380 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.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 680 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Porsche 356. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 356 | S |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 3165 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |
