1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf

To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 407 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1973 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 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 2009 Volkswagen Golf
Make Volkswagen Volkswagen
Model Karmann-Ghia Golf
Year Released 1973 2009
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 1285 cc 1984 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 43 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4100 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 86 Nm 200 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 3500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 840 kg 1247 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2430 mm 2580 mm