1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 2 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (158 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 1075 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 300 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3160 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 71 L | 52 L |
