1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 535 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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 Volvo S40, 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 Volvo S40 (301 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Volvo S40 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 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | S40 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
