1998 Pontiac Grand Prix vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 37 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 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix (173 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 681 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, 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix (264 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix has automatic transmission and 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Pontiac Grand Prix | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
Model | Grand Prix | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1998 | 1961 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 3128 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 264 Nm | 84 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 64 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1501 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2430 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 40 L |