1998 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1958 Porsche 356
To start off, 1998 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Fiat Barchetta (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 356. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 265 kg more than 1958 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Porsche 356. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1998 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1998 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Fiat Barchetta | 1958 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Fiat | Porsche |
| Model | Barchetta | 356 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2110 mm |
