2005 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 410 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 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 (187 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 has automatic transmission and 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 156 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 840 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
