1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 41 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 350 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, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1959 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1959 Porsche 356 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 45 L |
