1949 Buick 40 vs. 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Buick 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Buick 40 would be higher. At 4,066 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Buick 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Buick 40 (108 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Buick 40 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Buick 40 weights approximately 805 kg more than 1969 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:
| 1949 Buick 40 | 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
| Model | 40 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4066 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 840 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2430 mm |
