1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2008 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 46 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 166 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 516 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 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, 2008 Volkswagen GTI, 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 GTI (281 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2008 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | GTI |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1336 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
