1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is newer by 25 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 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 810 kg more than 1955 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. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 has automatic transmission and 1955 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1955 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz 380 | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 380 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2110 mm |
