1957 Lotus XI Le Mans vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans is newer by 2 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 356 (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. (84 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Porsche 356 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans. 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:
| 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Lotus | Porsche |
| Model | XI Le Mans | 356 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1096 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 410 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 820 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2110 mm |
