Germany vs Germany — 1964 vs 1955
| 356 SC Cabriolet | 356 Speedster 1600 Super | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 95 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 90 lb-ft | — |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 11.5 sec | — |
| Top Speed | 109 mph | — |
| ¼ Mile | 18.0 sec | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 4,010 mm | 3,950 mm |
| Units Produced | 3,174 | 4,145 |
| Value (Excellent) | $280,000 | $700,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 10/10 |
On balance, the 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet makes a stronger case on paper with more power, better value. However, the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super counters with its own distinct appeal, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet for outright capability, or the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Porsche 356. The 1964 and 1955 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet holds a clear advantage in raw power with 95 hp compared to 75 hp, a 20-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 356 uses a Flat-4 Air-Cooled displacing 1,582 cc, while the Porsche 356 relies on a Flat-4 with 1,582 cc. On the collector market, the 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster 1600 Super commands a significant premium over the 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.