1961 Porsche 356 vs. 2011 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2011 Mercury Mariner is newer by 50 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercury Mariner (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1961 Porsche 356. (135 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1961 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 735 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.
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, 2011 Mercury Mariner, 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. 2011 Mercury Mariner 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. 2011 Mercury Mariner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Porsche 356 | 2011 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Porsche | Mercury |
| Model | 356 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4458 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1778 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
