2004 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (247 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 714 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 (300 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1536 kg | 822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
