2009 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (167 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 714 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Malibu (160 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Malibu | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Volkswagen |
| Model | Malibu | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1554 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 40 L |
