1998 Pontiac Firebird vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Firebird is newer by 24 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 3,352 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Firebird (146 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 668 kg more than 1974 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Pontiac Firebird | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3352 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1528 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2430 mm |
