1952 Porsche 356 vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 45 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (167 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 459 kg more than 1952 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Porsche 356. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1239 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 55 L |
