1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 47 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Meriva (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 555 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, 2008 Opel Meriva, 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, 2008 Opel Meriva (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Opel Meriva has automatic transmission and 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Meriva will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 53 L |
