1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 41 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 570 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf, 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. 1997 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1956 Porsche 550 A has manual transmission. 1956 Porsche 550 A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 550 A | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 A | Golf |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2470 mm |
