1957 Porsche 356 vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 Ford Contour is newer by 42 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Contour weights approximately 452 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.
Because 1957 Porsche 356 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1957 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1999 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1957 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1957 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 1999 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Porsche | Ford |
| Model | 356 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
