2008 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 576 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Volkswagen Jetta | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1396 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
