2005 Cadillac XLR vs. 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 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 270 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 794 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.
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. 2005 Cadillac XLR 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 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Cadillac XLR | 1974 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Cadillac | Volkswagen |
| Model | XLR | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4564 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 322 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4000 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 | 860 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 |
