1949 Mercury Roadster vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1949 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Mercury Roadster (108 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1949 Mercury Roadster should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 730 kg more than 1966 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. 1949 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1949 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1949 Mercury Roadster 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Mercury Volkswagen
Model Roadster Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1949 1966
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 3990 cc 1285 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 108 HP 38 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 3900 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1550 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 5260 mm 4200 mm
Wheelbase Size 2960 mm 2430 mm


 

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