1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 43 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 8.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
