2003 Porsche 911 vs. 1958 Porsche 356

To start off, 2003 Porsche 911 is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Porsche 911 (443 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Porsche 911 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 Porsche 356. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Porsche 911 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 911 (621 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 500 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2003 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Porsche 911 1958 Porsche 356
Make Porsche Porsche
Model 911 356
Year Released 2003 1958
Engine Position Rear Rear
Engine Size 3600 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 443 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 621 Nm 121 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 5200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 100 mm 85 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.4 mm 66 mm
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1660 kg 855 kg
Vehicle Length 4440 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1300 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2360 mm 2110 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 64 L 52 L