1948 Jaguar XK vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,442 cc (6 cylinders), 1948 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Jaguar XK (160 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Jaguar XK weights approximately 512 kg more than 1974 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 Jaguar XK | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Jaguar | Volkswagen |
| Model | XK | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3442 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1372 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
