2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 4,564 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 279 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 804 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Cadillac XLR (420 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (102 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2005 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Cadillac XLR 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Cadillac Volkswagen
Model XLR Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 2005 1970
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 4564 cc 1492 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 322 HP 43 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 4100 RPM
Torque 420 Nm 102 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1654 kg 850 kg
Vehicle Length 4520 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1290 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2690 mm 2430 mm