1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (620 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 550 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche 911 weights approximately 635 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 620 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4468 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1285 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 67 L |
