2005 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1955 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 356 (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 450 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356.
Because 1955 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 1955 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | 1955 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Porsche |
| Model | A | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 52 L |
