Porsche 959

vs

Porsche Taycan Turbo S

Germany vs Germany — 1986 vs 2020

Porsche 959 (1986)
Porsche Taycan Turbo S (2020)
Specifications
959 SportTaycan Turbo S
Horsepower450 hp750 hp
Torque369 lb-ft774 lb-ft
Engine Size2,849 cc
0-60 mph3.6 sec2.6 sec
Top Speed197 mph162 mph
¼ Mile11.8 sec10.5 sec
Weight3,197 lbs5,060 lbs
Wheelbase2,272 mm2,900 mm
Length4,260 mm4,963 mm
Units Produced337
Original MSRP$225,000$187,600
Value (Excellent)$3,500,000$180,000
Collectibility10/106/10
Rarity9/104/10
The Verdict

This matchup is remarkably close. The 1986 Porsche 959 Sport offers higher top speed, lighter weight, stronger collectibility, while the 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S counters with more power, quicker acceleration, better value. Neither holds a decisive advantage, making this a true enthusiast's dilemma. Your choice ultimately depends on which driving philosophy resonates more with you.

Overview

Within the Porsche stable, the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport and 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Porsche badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S holds a clear advantage in raw power with 750 hp compared to 450 hp, a 300-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. The engine configurations differ significantly — a Flat-6 Twin-Turbo (Sequential) in the Porsche 959 versus a Dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Electric Motors in the Porsche Taycan Turbo S. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S edges ahead at 2.6 seconds versus 3.6 seconds. The Porsche 959 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1863 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport commands a significant premium over the 2020 Porsche Taycan Turbo S, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1986 Porsche 959 Sport rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.