1959 Maserati 420 vs. 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Maserati 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Maserati 420 would be higher. At 4,190 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Maserati 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Maserati 420 (405 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 362 more horse power than 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Maserati 420 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Maserati 420 weights approximately 323 kg more than 1969 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:
| 1959 Maserati 420 | 1969 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Maserati | Volkswagen |
| Model | 420 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4190 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 405 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
