1959 Saab 95 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Saab 95. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Saab 95 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Saab 95 (38 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Saab 95 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Saab 95 weights approximately 68 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Saab 95, 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, both vehicles can yield 84 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Saab 95 | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 95 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 841 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 888 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
