1948 Buick 40 vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,064 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Buick 40 (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 825 kg more than 1956 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:
| 1948 Buick 40 | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | 40 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4064 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 820 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2410 mm |
