2007 Honda Element vs. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2007 Honda Element is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Honda Element weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Honda Element, 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, 2007 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 400 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Honda Element | 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Element | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1640 mm |
