1957 Porsche 356 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Passat (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 170 kg more than 1957 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 1980 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2560 mm |
