1957 Lotus Seven vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Lotus Seven. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Lotus Seven would be higher. At 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Lotus Seven (126 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 110 kg more than 1957 Lotus Seven.
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:
| 1957 Lotus Seven | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 40 L |
