1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volkswagen Passat (49 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 125 kg more than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1979 Volkswagen Passat (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
1960 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Karmann-Ghia | Passat |
Year Released | 1960 | 1979 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 30 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 77 Nm | 82 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 945 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2480 mm |