1957 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 55 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 459 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1149 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 356 | SL |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2560 mm |
