2008 GMC Savana vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 2008 GMC Savana is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 4,802 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 GMC Savana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 GMC Savana (279 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 245 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 GMC Savana should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 GMC Savana weights approximately 1757 kg more than 1961 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 GMC Savana (399 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 GMC Savana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 GMC Savana has automatic transmission and 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 GMC Savana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 GMC Savana 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make GMC Volkswagen
Model Savana Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 2008 1961
Body Type Van Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 4802 cc 1192 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 279 HP 34 HP
Engine RPM 5200 RPM 3600 RPM
Torque 399 Nm 84 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 2000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2577 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 6210 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 2090 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 3940 mm 2430 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 117 L 40 L