1971 Peugeot 304 vs. 1952 Porsche 356
To start off, 1971 Peugeot 304 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Peugeot 304 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304 should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1952 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1952 Porsche 356 (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1952 Porsche 356 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Peugeot 304 | 1952 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Porsche |
| Model | 304 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1952 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 79 L |
