1951 Porsche 356 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1951 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1951 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 598 kg more than 1951 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 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 1951 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Porsche 356 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 55 L |
