2003 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 29 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (236 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 630 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.
Because 1974 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 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider (289 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
