1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (306 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | 156 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 306 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 63 L |
