Japan vs Germany — 1963 vs 1964
| S600 S800 | 356 SC Cabriolet | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 95 hp |
| Torque | 47 lb-ft | 90 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 791 cc | 1,582 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 11.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 109 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 19.0 sec | 18.0 sec |
| Wheelbase | 2,000 mm | 2,100 mm |
| Length | 3,335 mm | 4,010 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 3,174 |
| Value (Excellent) | $80,000 | $280,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 5/10 |
Numbers favor the 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1963 Honda S600 S800 offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1963 Honda S600 S800 versus 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet holds a clear advantage in raw power with 95 hp compared to 70 hp, a 25-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda S600 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16V displacing 791 cc, while the Porsche 356 relies on a Flat-4 Air-Cooled with 1,582 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet edges ahead at 11.5 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 1964 Porsche 356 SC Cabriolet commands a significant premium over the 1963 Honda S600 S800, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.