1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1958 Rover P4
To start off, 1959 Porsche 356 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,636 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Rover P4 (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Rover P4 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Rover P4 weights approximately 545 kg more than 1959 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:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 1958 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Porsche | Rover |
| Model | 356 | P4 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2636 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 52 L |
