2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 840 kg more than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
Model | 159 | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 2008 | 1960 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1910 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 30 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 77 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |