2002 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,221 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1070 kg more than 1959 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. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mercedes-Benz S | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 356 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3221 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 52 L |
