1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 57 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 573 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
