1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 525 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, 2008 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Porsche 356. 2008 Volvo S40 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. 2008 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 60 L |
