1971 Peugeot 304 vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 1971 Peugeot 304 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 356 (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1971 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1971 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 100 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356.
Because 1955 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 1955 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, 1955 Porsche 356 (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1955 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 | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Peugeot | Porsche |
| Model | 304 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 52 L |
