1959 Porsche 356 vs. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Porsche 356 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Porsche 356 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Porsche 356 should accelerate faster than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Porsche 356 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1963 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 Porsche 356 | 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 356 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 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 | 820 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 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
