2005 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 378 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 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 (165 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | New Beetle | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
