1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 51 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 590 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
