1955 Porsche 356 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 356 (100 HP) has 47 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1955 Porsche 356 (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1955 Porsche 356 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
