Germany vs Germany — 1948 vs 1964
| 356 Speedster | 904 Carrera GTS | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 70 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 75 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,582 cc | 1,966 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 13.5 sec | 5.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 100 mph | 162 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 18.5 sec | 14.2 sec |
| Weight | 1,852 lbs | 1,433 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,100 mm | 2,300 mm |
| Length | 3,950 mm | 4,050 mm |
| Units Produced | 4,145 | 120 |
| Original MSRP | $2,995 | $7,245 |
| Value (Excellent) | $700,000 | $2,500,000 |
| Collectibility | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster counters with 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.
The 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster and 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS share a manufacturer in Porsche, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Porsche brand. The 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS holds a clear advantage in raw power with 180 hp compared to 70 hp, a 110-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 904 relies on a Flat-4 DOHC with 1,966 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Porsche 904 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 419 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 120 units built, the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS is considerably scarcer than the Porsche 356's 4,145 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1948 Porsche 356 Speedster, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.