1955 Porsche 356 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 54 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (115 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1955 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1955 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 397 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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Jetta (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 189 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 | 1247 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 |
