1961 Porsche 356 vs. 2004 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2004 Peugeot 406 is newer by 43 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Porsche 356 (135 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2004 Peugeot 406. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 2004 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1961 Porsche 356.
Because 1961 Porsche 356 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1961 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Peugeot 406, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. 2004 Peugeot 406 has automatic transmission and 1961 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1961 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Porsche 356 | 2004 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Porsche | Peugeot |
| Model | 356 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 70 L |
