1999 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1249 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A. 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. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 550 A has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 550 A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 550 A |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1854 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2110 mm |
