1956 BMW Isetta vs. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW Isetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW Isetta would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (30 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1956 BMW Isetta. (13 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW Isetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 460 kg more than 1956 BMW Isetta. 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:
| 1956 BMW Isetta | 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | Isetta | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Rear |
| Engine Size | 247 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 1 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | single | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 30 HP |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 1 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 360 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2300 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1510 mm | 2430 mm |
