1958 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS weights approximately 876 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356.
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 SLS has automatic transmission and 1958 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1958 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Porsche 356 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLS | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 356 | SLS |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1486 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 563 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1661 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4638 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1938 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2680 mm |
