1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 49 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 875 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 356 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
