1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 440 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 440 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 1989 Volvo 440 (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 Volvo 440 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1989 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | 440 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
