1980 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1962 Porsche 356
To start off, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S (218 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1962 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1962 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 737 kg more than 1962 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 S has automatic transmission and 1962 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1962 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Mercedes-Benz S | 1962 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 356 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3818 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2130 mm |
