1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 390 kg more than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Golf |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
