2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (185 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2430 mm |
