1958 Porsche 356 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Porsche 356 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 5 kg more than 1958 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:
1958 Porsche 356 | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
Model | 356 | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1958 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
Engine Size | 1582 cc | 1492 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 52 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 855 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2430 mm |