1955 Pontiac Star Chief vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Pontiac Star Chief. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Pontiac Star Chief would be higher. At 4,715 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Pontiac Star Chief is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Pontiac Star Chief (173 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Pontiac Star Chief should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Pontiac Star Chief weights approximately 816 kg more than 1962 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:
| 1955 Pontiac Star Chief | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Star Chief | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4715 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2430 mm |
