Porsche 911

vs

Porsche 904

Germany vs Germany — 1972 vs 1964

Porsche 911 (1972)
Porsche 904 (1964)
Specifications
911 Carrera RS 2.7904 Carrera GTS
Horsepower210 hp180 hp
Torque188 lb-ft132 lb-ft
Engine Size2,687 cc1,966 cc
0-60 mph5.5 sec5.5 sec
Top Speed152 mph162 mph
¼ Mile14.1 sec14.2 sec
Weight2,150 lbs1,433 lbs
Wheelbase2,271 mm2,300 mm
Length4,147 mm4,050 mm
Units Produced1,580120
Original MSRP$7,245
Value (Excellent)$1,500,000$2,500,000
Collectibility10/1010/10
Rarity10/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, lighter weight. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 offers more power, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Porsche has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 with the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 180 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Porsche 911 uses a Flat-6 SOHC displacing 2,687 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 5.5 seconds. The Porsche 904 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 717 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 911's 1,580 examples. On the collector market, the 1964 Porsche 904 Carrera GTS commands a significant premium over the 1972 Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.