2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 585 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Chrysler | Volkswagen |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
