1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A 40 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 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 | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
