1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2002 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2002 Peugeot 406 is newer by 47 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Peugeot 406, 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. 2002 Peugeot 406 has automatic transmission and 1955 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1955 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 2002 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Porsche | Peugeot |
| Model | 356 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1130 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 79 L | 70 L |
