2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 200 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (78 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 2001 | 1959 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 80 HP | 30 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 131 Nm | 78 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |