1952 Porsche 356 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1955 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1952 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Porsche 356 (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Porsche 356 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2410 mm |
