1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1964 Porsche 904
To start off, 1964 Porsche 904 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Porsche 904 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Porsche 904 (177 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Porsche 904 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Porsche 356 weights approximately 156 kg more than 1964 Porsche 904.
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 | 1964 Porsche 904 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 904 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1964 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 699 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2310 mm |
