1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 37 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 348 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 1110 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | BMW |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | 550 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1492 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2969 mm |
