1954 Porsche 356 vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,487 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Porsche 356 (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 25 kg more than 1954 Porsche 356.
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:
| 1954 Porsche 356 | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1487 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
