2005 Porsche 996 vs. 1957 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Porsche 996 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (317 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 996 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1957 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 Porsche 356. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 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 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Porsche 356. (120 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Porsche 996 | 1957 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Porsche | Porsche |
| Model | 996 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3596 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
