2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 47 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 3,724 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 952 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.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Porsche 356. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | S | 356 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3724 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 858 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 52 L |
