1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass (123 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 450 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass (203 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | Cutlass | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
