2009 BMW 118 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 BMW 118 is newer by 48 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 118 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 118 weights approximately 670 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. 2009 BMW 118 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. 2009 BMW 118 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 118 | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 118 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 42 L |
