1958 Porsche 356 vs. 2006 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Volvo S40 is newer by 48 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356.
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, 2006 Volvo S40, 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (121 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Porsche 356 | 2006 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
