1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2012 Audi R8
To start off, 2012 Audi R8 is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 371 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi R8 weights approximately 765 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi R8 will offer significantly more control. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2012 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Audi |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | R8 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2649 mm |
