1999 Porsche 996 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1999 Porsche 996 is newer by 38 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 3,387 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Porsche 996 (296 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 253 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Porsche 996 weights approximately 535 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 1999 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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 Porsche 996 (357 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Porsche 996 | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Porsche | Volkswagen |
| Model | 996 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 3387 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 357 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2430 mm |
