1959 Citroen 2CV 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 Citroen 2CV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Citroen 2CV would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 105 kg more than 1959 Citroen 2CV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Citroen 2CV is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen 2CV 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, 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (50 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Citroen 2CV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Citroen 2CV | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 850 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 24 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 735 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 19 L | 40 L |
