1961 Porsche 356 vs. 1972 Porsche 911
To start off, 1972 Porsche 911 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Porsche 911 (210 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Porsche 911 weights approximately 201 kg more than 1961 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 Porsche 356 | 1972 Porsche 911 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 356 | 911 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2280 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 85 L |
