2009 Dodge Ram vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2009 Dodge Ram is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Ram (390 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 341 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Ram weights approximately 821 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Ram 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, 2009 Dodge Ram (552 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 444 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2009 Dodge Ram has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Ram will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Ram | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Dodge | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ram | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 390 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 552 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1910 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3560 mm | 2430 mm |
