1955 Chrysler 300 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Chrysler 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Chrysler 300 would be higher. At 5,425 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Chrysler 300 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 244 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 1070 kg more than 1959 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. 1955 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1955 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Chrysler 300 | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | 300 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5425 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1930 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5570 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3210 mm | 2430 mm |
