1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 815 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. 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:
| 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 240 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2398 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 52 L |
