2008 Audi A8 vs. 1959 Porsche 356
To start off, 2008 Audi A8 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1959 Porsche 356. (75 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1959 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A8 weights approximately 832 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 Audi A8, 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 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 8200 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Porsche 356. (119 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Porsche 356.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A8 | 1959 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Audi | Porsche |
| Model | A8 | 356 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 8200 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 838 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5190 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 52 L |
