1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Lexus IS
To start off, 2012 Lexus IS is newer by 53 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 2,231 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus IS weights approximately 710 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356.
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. 2012 Lexus IS 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. 2012 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2012 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Porsche | Lexus |
| Model | 356 | IS |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2231 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 150 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2731 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 65 L |
