Germany vs Germany — 1964 vs 1971
| 904 Carrera GTS | 917 K | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 580 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 428 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,966 cc | 4,907 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 2.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 162 mph | 224 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.2 sec | 9.8 sec |
| Weight | 1,433 lbs | 1,764 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,300 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 4,050 mm | 4,140 mm |
| Units Produced | 120 | 12 |
| Original MSRP | $7,245 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $2,500,000 | $20,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 10/10 | 10/10 |
Numbers favor the 1971 Porsche 917 K with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Porsche has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS with the 1971 Porsche 917 K highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1971 Porsche 917 K holds a clear advantage in raw power with 580 hp compared to 180 hp, a 400-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 904 uses a Flat-4 DOHC displacing 1,966 cc, while the Porsche 917 relies on a Flat-12 DOHC with 4,907 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1971 Porsche 917 K edges ahead at 2.3 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. The Porsche 904 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 331 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 12 units built, the 1971 Porsche 917 K is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 904's 120 examples. On the collector market, the 1971 Porsche 917 K commands a significant premium over the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.