1956 Porsche 356 vs. 1984 Saab 900
To start off, 1984 Saab 900 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Saab 900 (100 HP) has 41 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Saab 900 weights approximately 328 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Saab 900, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1984 Saab 900 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Porsche 356. (110 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1984 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 1984 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Porsche | Saab |
| Model | 356 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 852 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2530 mm |
