1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 526 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1346 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
