1959 Citroen 2CV vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 7 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), 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (13 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1959 Citroen 2CV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 220 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 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Citroen 2CV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Citroen 2CV. (24 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1966 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 | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2CV | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 425 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 13 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 24 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 62 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 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 |
