1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2006 Saturn ION
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 50 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Saturn ION is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 1196 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.
Because 1956 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 1956 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION, 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. 2006 Saturn ION 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. 2006 Saturn ION will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2006 Saturn ION | |
| Make | Porsche | Saturn |
| Model | 356 | ION |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1946 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 49 L |
