1989 Ford Probe vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1989 Ford Probe is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 390 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
