2008 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,969 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 583 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Because 1958 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 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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 Spider (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1969 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 30 HP |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
