1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 is newer by 40 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Porsche 550 A (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Porsche 550 A should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 635 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, 1996 Volvo V40, 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 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 550 A | V40 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2570 mm |
