1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix (208 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 739 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix (291 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1990 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Pontiac |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 3352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 291 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1609 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2790 mm |
