1943 Packard 12 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1943 Packard 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1943 Packard 12 would be higher. At 7,756 cc (12 cylinders), 1943 Packard 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1943 Packard 12 (174 HP @ 3200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1943 Packard 12 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1943 Packard 12 weights approximately 1550 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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:
| 1943 Packard 12 | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Packard | Volkswagen |
| Model | 12 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1943 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 7756 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2420 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5800 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2430 mm |
