1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2011 Lexus RX

To start off, 2011 Lexus RX is newer by 40 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus RX weights approximately 1025 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, 2011 Lexus RX, 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, 2011 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2011 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 2011 Lexus RX
Make Volkswagen Lexus
Model Karmann-Ghia RX
Year Released 1971 2011
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1583 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 49 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 108 Nm 348 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4700 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 870 kg 1895 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4770 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1885 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1720 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2741 mm