1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1973 Porsche 917
To start off, 1973 Porsche 917 is newer by 14 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 4,994 cc, 1973 Porsche 917 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Porsche 917 (520 HP) has 445 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Porsche 917 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Porsche 356 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1973 Porsche 917.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Porsche 917 (610 Nm) has 491 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm). This means 1973 Porsche 917 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 1973 Porsche 917 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 917 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 4994 cc |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 520 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 610 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 838 kg | 798 kg |
