1997 Oldsmobile SS vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 23 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile SS should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile SS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 1997 Oldsmobile SS has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile SS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Oldsmobile SS | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Volkswagen |
| Model | SS | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3789 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 318 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1640 mm |
