1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 557 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, 2005 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. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Porsche 356 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
Model | 356 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1968 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
Horse Power | 75 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 119 Nm | 170 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 838 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |