Germany vs Germany — 1948 vs 1978
| 356 Speedster | 935 Turbo | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 750 hp |
| Torque | 75 lb-ft | 590 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 3,211 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 2.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 221 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 10.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 2,260 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 4,625 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,145 | 13 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $6,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Within the Porsche stable, the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster and 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo represent different approaches to performance and purpose. Both carry the Porsche badge, yet each carves out its own distinct identity. The 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo holds a clear advantage in raw power with 750 hp compared to 70 hp, a 680-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356 uses a Flat-4 OHV air-cooled displacing 1,582 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 13.5 seconds. The Porsche 356 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 408 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13 units built, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356's 4,145 examples. On the collector market, the 1978 Porsche 935 Turbo commands a significant premium over the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.