1981 Porsche 944 vs. 2001 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2001 Toyota Highlander is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 2,479 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Porsche 944 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Toyota Highlander (157 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 235 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Porsche 944 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 1981 Porsche 944. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2001 Toyota Highlander (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Porsche 944 | 2001 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Porsche | Toyota |
| Model | 944 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2479 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1345 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2730 mm |
