1986 Buick Regal vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1986 Buick Regal is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Regal is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Buick Regal (235 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Buick Regal should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Buick Regal weights approximately 630 kg more than 1959 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. 1986 Buick Regal has automatic transmission and 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Regal will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1986 Buick Regal 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Buick Volkswagen
Model Regal Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1986 1959
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 3791 cc 1493 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 235 HP 52 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 4000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 860 kg
Vehicle Length 5100 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2430 mm