1952 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 60 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1952 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1952 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 518 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, 2012 Volkswagen 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. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1952 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1952 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 Porsche 356 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1808 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 55 L |
