2003 Subaru R2 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 is newer by 48 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 1,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Subaru R2 (52 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2.
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, 2003 Subaru R2, 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, 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (63 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Subaru R2 | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Subaru | Volkswagen |
| Model | R2 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 658 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 780 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2430 mm |
