1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 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 2,345 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356.
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 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Porsche 356. 2006 Volvo V50 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 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2345 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
