1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Porsche 911
To start off, 2012 Porsche 911 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Porsche 911 (345 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Porsche 911 weights approximately 675 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 2012 Porsche 911 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Porsche 356. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2012 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 345 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1311 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 67 L |
