1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2002 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 457 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2002 Volkswagen Passat (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 2002 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
