1954 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2012 Peugeot 408 is newer by 58 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 110 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 1954 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 1954 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Peugeot 408, 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, 2012 Peugeot 408 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Porsche 356. (133 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2012 Peugeot 408 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Porsche 356. 2012 Peugeot 408 has automatic transmission and 1954 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1954 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Peugeot 408 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Porsche 356 | 2012 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Porsche | Peugeot |
| Model | 356 | 408 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
