1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Polo

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 48 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), 2007 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 300 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, 2007 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2007 Volkswagen Polo (140 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Porsche 356 2007 Volkswagen Polo
Make Porsche Volkswagen
Model 356 Polo
Year Released 1959 2007
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1582 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type boxer in-line
Horse Power 75 HP 100 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 119 Nm 140 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 3300 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.5:1 10.3:1
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 1138 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1670 mm 1660 mm
Vehicle Height 1310 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2110 mm 2470 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 45 L