2004 Nissan Altima vs. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,505 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (175 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 541 kg more than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (244 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Nissan | Volkswagen |
| Model | Altima | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1963 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2505 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1361 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 40 L |
