1962 Porsche 718 vs. 1958 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1962 Porsche 718 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Porsche 718 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Porsche 718 (146 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Porsche 718 should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Porsche 550 A weights approximately 15 kg more than 1962 Porsche 718.
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:
| 1962 Porsche 718 | 1958 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 718 | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2110 mm |
