1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is newer by 28 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 2,998 cc (5 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (125 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 552 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.
Because 1956 Porsche 356 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 1956 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300, 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 (245 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Porsche 356. (121 Nm). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | 300 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.5 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2110 mm |
