2008 BMW M5 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 49 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 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 448 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 970 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 2008 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M5 | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | M5 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4999 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 500 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2430 mm |
