1956 Porsche 356 vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen W12 is newer by 41 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 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 350 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen W12 weights approximately 440 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. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | W12 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | W |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
