1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 40 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
