1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 39 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 515 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, 2011 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Astra |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2620 mm |
