Porsche 959

vs

Porsche 935

Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 1978

Porsche 959 (1986)
Porsche 935 (1978)
Specifications
959 Sport935 Turbo
Horsepower450 hp750 hp
Torque369 lb-ft590 lb-ft
Engine Size2,849 cc3,211 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec2.8 sec
Top Speed197 mph221 mph
¼ Mile11.8 sec10.2 sec
Weight3,197 lbs2,260 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,272 mm
Length4,260 mm4,625 mm
Units Produced33713
Original MSRP$225,000
Value (Excellent)$3,500,000$6,000,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity9/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1986 Porsche 959 Sport offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Porsche has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport with the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 750 hp compared to 450 hp, a 300-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 959 uses a Flat-6 Twin-Turbo (Sequential) displacing 2,849 cc, while the Porsche 935 relies on a Flat-6 Turbocharged with 3,211 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo edges ahead at 2.8 seconds versus 3.6 seconds. The Porsche 935 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 937 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13 units built, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 959's 337 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo commands a significant premium over the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.