1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2003 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Acura RL is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RL (225 HP) has 195 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RL weights approximately 855 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura RL, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (78 Nm). This means 2003 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2003 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2003 Acura RL | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Acura |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | RL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 78 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2920 mm |
