1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 48 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (247 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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. 2009 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Golf |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
