1961 Porsche 356 vs. 1957 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1961 Porsche 356 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Porsche 356 weights approximately 249 kg more than 1957 Porsche 550 A.
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 Porsche 356 | 1957 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2110 mm |
