1996 Audi A3 vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 37 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 296 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, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (136 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A3 | 356 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 838 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2110 mm |
