1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1991 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1991 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Volkswagen Golf (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 90 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Volkswagen Golf. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1991 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Golf |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |
