1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1997 Volvo S70
To start off, 1997 Volvo S70 is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,460 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S70 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S70 weights approximately 537 kg more than 1959 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S70, 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, 1997 Volvo S70 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S70 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 1997 Volvo S70 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | S70 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2460 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 20.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 838 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 68 L |
