1948 Buick 40 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 11 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 5,249 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Buick 40 (142 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Buick 40 weights approximately 978 kg more than 1959 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 | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | 40 | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1948 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 5249 cc | 1584 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 49 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 85.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 109.5 mm | 69 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1848 kg | 870 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2430 mm |