1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 56 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 985 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.
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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 356 | E |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1735 kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 80 L |
