1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 52 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 356 (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 459 kg more than 1955 Porsche 356.
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, 2007 Volkswagen New 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. Let's talk about torque, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1309 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
