1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 500 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Porsche 356. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 Passat (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Passat |
| 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 | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 204 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
