2005 Porsche 911 vs. 1981 Porsche 944
To start off, 2005 Porsche 911 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Porsche 944. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Porsche 944 would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 911 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 911 (414 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 269 more horse power than 1981 Porsche 944. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 911 should accelerate faster than 1981 Porsche 944. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 911 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1981 Porsche 944. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Porsche 911 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Porsche 944. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Porsche 911 (560 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 365 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Porsche 944. (195 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 911 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Porsche 944.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Porsche 911 | 1981 Porsche 944 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 911 | 944 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2479 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.4 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
