1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2009 BMW 525
To start off, 2009 BMW 525 is newer by 50 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 525 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 525 weights approximately 800 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.
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. 2009 BMW 525 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. 2009 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2009 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | 525 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2890 mm |
