2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 536 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
