1956 Porsche 356 vs. 1985 Volvo 740
To start off, 1985 Volvo 740 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,986 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volvo 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Volvo 740 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 1985 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | 740 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2780 mm |
