1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 49 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 620 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, 2008 Volvo S40, 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Porsche 356 | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Porsche | Volvo |
| Model | 356 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1582 cc | 2521 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 119 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| 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 | 1458 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4470 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 |
