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 1,731 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo S40 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 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 370 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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Volvo S40 (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | S40 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4100 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1210 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 |
