1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 1986 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1986 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Porsche 550 A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1986 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 421 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A.
Because 1956 Porsche 550 A 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 550 A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Passat, 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 550 A | 1986 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 A | Passat |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2560 mm |
