1957 Porsche 356 vs. 1972 Porsche 914
To start off, 1972 Porsche 914 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 914 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Porsche 914 (108 HP @ 5850 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Porsche 914 should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Porsche 914 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1957 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:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 1972 Porsche 914 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 914 |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2460 mm |
