Jay Leno Tested Classic Porsche Performance Models
CEO Wilhelm Schmid joined Jay Leno to drive and evaluate two distinct vintage Porsche performance vehicles.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Performance Vehicles
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Jay Leno invited A. Lange & Söhne CEO Wilhelm Schmid to drive a 1963 Porsche 356 Carrera 2 and a 2004 Porsche Carrera GT. Schmid identified the 2004 model as the superior performance vehicle during their drive.
Why it matters
Comparing these two vehicles highlights the significant evolution in automotive engineering between the mid-century era and the early 2000s. The test illustrates how design priorities and performance benchmarks have shifted over the decades for Porsche enthusiasts.
The 2004 Porsche Carrera GT generates 605 horsepower and weighs approximately 3,000 pounds. Its design includes a six-inch clutch that facilitates a lower engine mount, while the 1963 356 Carrera 2 requires operating above 4,500 rpm.
The players
Jay Leno
He is a well-known comedian and television host who maintains an extensive private collection of rare and vintage automobiles.
Wilhelm Schmid
He is the CEO of the luxury German watch manufacturer A. Lange & Söhne and an automotive enthusiast.
John Willhoit
He is a specialist builder recognized for his work on vintage Porsche vehicles during the 1970s.
The details
Leno acquired his 1963 Porsche 356 Carrera 2 after it had traveled fewer than 10,000 miles, following its construction by John Willhoit in the 1970s. The vehicle was originally sold for $16,000 during that period.
Timeline
John Willhoit built the 1963 Porsche 356 Carrera 2 during the 1970s.
The Porsche Carrera GT launched in 2004.
This report was published on September 22, 2026.
Roadmap
The 2004 Porsche Carrera GT represents a distinct era of analog performance engineering before the widespread adoption of modern driver-assist systems. This evaluation demonstrates how legacy models continue to define the market's standard for vehicle engagement.
These vintage models represent significant financial investments that require specialized maintenance to remain operable. Owners and potential buyers should be prepared for the high costs associated with keeping classic, low-mileage engines in peak condition.
The takeaway
Appreciating the technical differences between classic engines and modern powerplants provides a deeper understanding of automotive history. Enthusiasts should prioritize historical maintenance records when considering the purchase of vintage performance cars.
Further reading
For more on high-performance automotive heritage, explore our Performance Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by HotCars.
Live Poll
Do you prefer the driving experience of traditional manual, analog cars over modern high-performance vehicles?
