1954 Studebaker Commander vs. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Studebaker Commander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Studebaker Commander would be higher. At 3,673 cc (8 cylinders), 1954 Studebaker Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Studebaker Commander (140 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Studebaker Commander should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Studebaker Commander weights approximately 600 kg more than 1960 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:
| 1954 Studebaker Commander | 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Studebaker | Volkswagen |
| Model | Commander | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3673 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5200 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2430 mm |
