1968 Buick Riviera vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1968 Buick Riviera is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 7,050 cc (8 cylinders), 1968 Buick Riviera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Buick Riviera (305 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Buick Riviera should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1968 Buick Riviera weights approximately 1040 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1968 Buick Riviera has automatic transmission and 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1968 Buick Riviera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Buick Riviera | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Buick | Volkswagen |
Model | Riviera | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1968 | 1961 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 7050 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 305 HP | 52 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 860 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5370 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 42 L |