1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 47 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volvo V50 weights approximately 587 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, 2006 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356. 2006 Volvo V50 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. 2006 Volvo V50 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 838 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 62 L |
