1972 Porsche 911 vs. 1955 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1972 Porsche 911 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 2,339 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Porsche 911 (165 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Porsche 911 weights approximately 472 kg more than 1955 Porsche 550 A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1972 Porsche 911 | 1955 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 911 | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2339 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2110 mm |
