1989 Opel Kadett vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1989 Opel Kadett is newer by 34 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Opel Kadett (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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, 1989 Opel Kadett, 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, 1989 Opel Kadett (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1989 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Opel Kadett | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kadett | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
