1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 330 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2640 mm |
