2008 Ford E-350 vs. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Ford E-350 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford E-350 weights approximately 231 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford E-350, 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 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Ford E-350 has automatic transmission and 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford E-350 | 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | E-350 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5409 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2140 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2430 mm |
