2009 BMW 550 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 870 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 550 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
