2005 Kia Optima vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 657 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1962 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 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Kia Optima 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Kia Volkswagen
Model Optima Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 2005 1962
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 2360 cc 1285 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 43 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4100 RPM
Torque 199 Nm 86 Nm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 7.3:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1497 kg 840 kg
Vehicle Length 4730 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 40 L