1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 1996 Volvo S40 is newer by 22 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 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo S40 weights approximately 358 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, 1996 Volvo S40, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1492 cc | 1948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2560 mm |
