1949 Porsche 356 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,455 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 30 kg more than 1949 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Porsche 356 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1949 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1949 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1949 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Porsche 356 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2410 mm |
