1999 Pontiac Salsa vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1999 Pontiac Salsa is newer by 44 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Salsa (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Salsa should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Salsa weights approximately 330 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1999 Pontiac Salsa, 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, 1999 Pontiac Salsa (203 Nm) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm). This means 1999 Pontiac Salsa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Pontiac Salsa 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Pontiac Volkswagen
Model Salsa Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1999 1955
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1499 cc 1584 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 153 HP 49 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 108 Nm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1200 kg 870 kg
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2430 mm


 

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