1958 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 54 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 513 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1958 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1958 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Porsche 356 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1290 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2578 mm |
