1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2011 Honda Civic

To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 52 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Civic (198 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Civic weights approximately 429 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, 2011 Honda Civic, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Honda Civic (193 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm). This means 2011 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Porsche 356 2011 Honda Civic
Make Porsche Honda
Model 356 Civic
Year Released 1959 2011
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1582 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 75 HP 198 HP
Torque 119 Nm 193 Nm
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 86 mm
Engine Stroke Size 74 mm 86 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 11:01
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 838 kg 1267 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4276 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1785 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1445 mm