1958 Porsche 356 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,593 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (104 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 385 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Porsche 356 | 2001 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1593 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
