1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 120 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.
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:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2430 mm |
