1952 Porsche 356 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 54 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 504 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Porsche 356. (106 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1131 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1284 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 55 L |
