1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2012 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2012 Volvo XC90 is newer by 39 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 3,200 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volvo XC90 (240 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 1315 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 2012 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Volvo XC90 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2012 Volvo XC90 has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2012 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4808 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1897 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2860 mm |
