1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (221 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 675 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 63 L |
