1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1997 Acura RL
To start off, 1997 Acura RL is newer by 38 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 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura RL weights approximately 820 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.
Because 1959 Porsche 356 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura RL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 1997 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 1997 Acura RL | |
| Make | Porsche | Acura |
| Model | 356 | RL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 50 L |
