1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 2004 Porsche 996
To start off, 2004 Porsche 996 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Porsche 996 weights approximately 800 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Porsche 550 A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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 550 A | 2004 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 550 A | 996 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 317 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2360 mm |
