1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 53 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), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 520 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (251 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| 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 | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
