1956 Porsche 550 A vs. 2011 Volvo S80
To start off, 2011 Volvo S80 is newer by 55 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 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo S80 (114 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo S80 weights approximately 1004 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, 2011 Volvo S80, 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. 2011 Volvo S80 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. 2011 Volvo S80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 550 A | 2011 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 550 A | S80 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 605 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4628 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1864 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1483 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2776 mm |
