1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 130 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Karmann-Ghia | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1955 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 108 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 64 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |