1971 Subaru R-2 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1971 Subaru R-2 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Subaru R-2. (27 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1971 Subaru R-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 410 kg more than 1971 Subaru R-2. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Subaru R-2. (40 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Subaru R-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Subaru R-2 | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R-2 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 40 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1930 mm | 2430 mm |
