1955 Porsche 356 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Porsche 356 (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 60 kg more than 1955 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:
| 1955 Porsche 356 | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
