1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 34 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (89 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 295 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (130 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1584 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2590 mm |
