1963 Porsche 356 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,581 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Porsche 356 (95 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (54 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Porsche 356 weights approximately 74 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Porsche 356 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 934 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
