1958 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (280 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 803 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 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. 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Porsche 356 | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1563 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2712 mm |
