1957 Porsche 356 vs. 2001 Mercury Cougar
To start off, 2001 Mercury Cougar is newer by 44 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercury Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercury Cougar (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercury Cougar should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercury Cougar weights approximately 524 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, 2001 Mercury Cougar, 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. 2001 Mercury Cougar 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. 2001 Mercury Cougar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 2001 Mercury Cougar | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercury |
| Model | 356 | Cougar |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
