1959 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse

To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 53 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 1258 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, 2012 Chevrolet Traverse, 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. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2012 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1959 Porsche 356 2012 Chevrolet Traverse
Make Porsche Chevrolet
Model 356 Traverse
Year Released 1959 2012
Body Type Convertible Crossover
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1588 cc 3600 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 74 HP 281 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6300 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 855 kg 2113 kg
Vehicle Length 4020 mm 5207 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1991 mm
Vehicle Height 1230 mm 1849 mm
Wheelbase Size 2130 mm 3020 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 52 L 83 L